FAQ: Postman API Calls
1. What is Postman?
Postman is a popular API development and testing tool that allows users to send HTTP requests (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE), automate tests, and document APIs. It’s widely used by developers and QA teams.
2. How do I send a POST request in Postman?
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Open Postman and create a new request.
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Select
POSTfrom the method dropdown. -
Enter the API URL (e.g.,
https://api.example.com/users). -
Under the Headers tab, add:
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Content-Type: application/json -
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_TOKEN(if needed).
-
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Under the Body tab, select
rawand paste your JSON payload:
{
"name": "John Doe",
"email": "[email protected]"
}
6.Click Send to submit the request.
3. How do I automate tests in Postman?
Use the Tests tab to write JavaScript snippets. Example:
// Check if status code is 200
pm.test("Status OK", () => pm.response.to.have.status(200));
// Validate response time
pm.test("Response time < 500ms", () => pm.expect(pm.response.responseTime).to.be.below(500));
4. How can I share Postman API calls with my team?
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Collections: Group related requests into a Postman Collection and share via a link or JSON export.
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Environments: Share environment variables (e.g.,
{{base_url}}) for consistent testing across teams. -
Postman Workspaces: Collaborate in real-time with shared workspaces.
5. Why am I getting a ‘401 Unauthorized’ error?
This typically means your request lacks valid authentication. Fixes:
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Add an
Authorizationheader (e.g., API key, OAuth2 token). -
Ensure tokens are active and have correct permissions.
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Check if the API requires additional headers (e.g.,
x-api-key).
6. How do I use variables in Postman?
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Environment Variables: Store dynamic values like
{{base_url}}(e.g.,https://api.example.com). -
Global Variables: Accessible across all requests (e.g.,
{{auth_token}}). -
Set them via:
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Scripts:
pm.variables.set("key", "value"); -
UI: Click the eye icon in the top-right.
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7. Can I import APIs into Postman?
Yes! Import APIs via:
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Swagger/OpenAPI: Click Import > Paste a URL or upload a JSON/YAML file.
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cURL: Paste a cURL command directly into Postman’s Import tab.
8. How do I debug a failing API call?
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Check the Console: Open Postman’s console (
View > Show Postman Console) for detailed logs. -
Validate Headers/Body: Ensure JSON syntax is correct and headers match API docs.
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Test in Stages: Use the Pre-request Script to log variables before sending.
Formatting Tips for Your FAQ Page
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Categories: Group questions by topic (e.g., Authentication, Testing, Collaboration).
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Search Bar: Let users quickly find answers.
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Expand/Collapse: Use JavaScript to hide answers until clicked (better UX).
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Links: Link to official Postman docs for deeper dives.