dqx-tdd-cycle

A test-driven development cycle follows the Red, Green, and Refactor phases: write failing tests first, implement minimal code to pass them, then refactor toward a clean, well-tested feature. This enforces a test-first workflow that reduces downstream defects.

Implement code using the Red-Green-Refactor workflow by writing a failing test for the new feature, coding the minimum logic required to make it pass, and refactoring the result while validating changes against quality gates. Iterate this cycle to reach high coverage targets.

Quality gates in test-driven development are enforced checkpoints that validate code standards and test coverage alignment during the Refactor phase. They ensure the implemented feature meets high-coverage targets before the cycle completes, reducing downstream defects.

Yes, you can apply this TDD workflow to a new module to validate requirements with tests before writing the actual implementation. Writing tests first guides your implementation decisions and ensures the feature behaves as expected from the start.

You should avoid a test-first workflow when exploring experimental prototypes where requirements are highly volatile, as writing structured failing tests upfront may create unnecessary rework before the feature's core design is stable.