[Linda Guthrie]

I bought a used ceiling fan with a light and I want to test it for function before I install it. How do I do this?

[smearcase]

Very carefully!
Mount it where you intend to install it with a proper box, properly installed per manufacturer's recommendations.
If it does not work, make sure the next one you buy can be mounted to that box.

[stanfortyman]

If you bought it already just install it properly. It's not like it's that much work.
If it works, great. If not, take it down and start over.