Final answer:
Checklist-based testing enables more consistent testing, especially when formal requirements are absent, by guiding testers through predefined checks to ensure all features are covered.
Step-by-step explanation:
The benefit of using checklist-based testing is that it allows us to test in a more consistent way. Checklists help ensure that nothing is missed during the testing process and that every essential feature or function is covered. The option stating that it allows us to test effectively in the absence of formal requirements is the closest match to this idea, as checklists can serve as a substitute for formal requirements, guiding testers through a set of predetermined checks when formal requirements are lacking. This consistency is crucial for reliable software testing, and checklists are instrumental in achieving this, especially when dealing with complex systems where the probability of overlooking a test scenario is higher.