InvalidSelectorException: Understanding and Handling the Exception in Selenium
Blog post from testRigor
Selenium employs various locators like ID, Name, Class Name, Tag Name, CSS, and XPath to identify and interact with web elements, with each having specific applications and potential pitfalls that can lead to InvalidSelectorException if misused. Common reasons for this exception include syntax errors, using incorrect selector types, complex or unsupported expressions, and incorrect usage of WebDriver methods. To mitigate these issues, verifying selector syntax, choosing the correct selector type, testing selectors beforehand, handling dynamic content, simplifying expressions, and following CSS and XPath standards are recommended. Additionally, using relative paths over absolute ones can prevent errors due to UI changes. However, the text suggests moving beyond Selenium to AI-powered tools like testRigor, which bypass traditional locators by using a human-like approach to element identification, offering stability, reduced maintenance, and ease of use across teams with different technical expertise. This alternative promises to save time, effort, and costs typically associated with maintaining Selenium scripts, emphasizing the benefits of adopting modern, efficient test automation solutions.