How to Test a Circuit ​

Whether you want to test a simple circuit you’ve made for a school project or a wall outlet in your home, there are several testing tools you can use to check for continuity—that is, a completed circuit. A continuity tester is the simplest tool for the specific task of checking for continuity, while a multimeter also provides a wide range of other electrical testing uses. You can also use a circuit tester to check for continuity, but its best use is checking for proper grounding of your circuit. Always use caution when working with live wires!

Make sure your continuity tester works ​

buy at any hardware store, consists of a small cylinder with a lamp at one end and a probe at the other. A battery goes inside the cylinder to power the tester, and a flexible wire with a clip extends out from the cylinder.[2]

• To test that it’s working, simply touch the clip to the probe. If the lamp comes on, it’s working. If it doesn’t, check the battery.
• Continuity testers are cheap and easy to use, but you can also find instructions online for making your own with a few simple parts.