tdd

Guide test-driven development with workflow, refactoring strategies, and best-practice checklists.

6|Updated Nov 30, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/christopher-buss/bedrock --skill tdd-christopher-buss
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: tdd
Source: https://github.com/christopher-buss/bedrock/tree/main/.agents/skills/tdd
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/christopher-buss/bedrock --skill tdd-christopher-buss

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides a comprehensive guide to the test-driven development (TDD) methodology, addressing the common challenges and misconceptions that developers face when implementing TDD.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Philosophy: Offers a clear understanding of the core principles of TDD, emphasizing the importance of testing behavior over implementation.
  • Good vs. Bad Tests: Differentiates between good and bad testing practices, with examples and explanations.
  • Anti-Patterns: Warns against the anti-pattern of horizontal slicing and suggests a more effective approach of vertical slices.
  • Workflow: Outlines the TDD workflow, including planning, writing tracer bullets, and incremental loops.
  • Refactoring: Provides guidance on refactoring after TDD cycles, focusing on common refactoring candidates.
  • Checklist: Offers a checklist to ensure that tests are well-written and meet best practices.

Quick Start

Follow the TDD process for your next feature or bug fix by reading the provided guidelines and examples.

Frequently Asked Questions about tdd

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is test-driven development and how does it improve software quality?

Test-driven development (TDD) is a methodology emphasizing testing behavior over implementation. It improves software quality by guiding development through structured workflows, incremental loops, and refactoring strategies to prevent anti-patterns.

How do I start writing tests using a TDD workflow?

Start the TDD workflow by planning your feature, writing tracer bullets, and iterating through incremental test-writing loops. Follow the provided guidelines to differentiate between good and bad testing practices during implementation.

What is the difference between good and bad tests in test-driven development?

Good tests in test-driven development focus on behavior rather than implementation details. Bad tests often rely on horizontal slicing, an anti-pattern that this methodology replaces with effective vertical slices for better software testing.

When should I refactor code during test-driven development cycles?

You should refactor code after completing TDD cycles to ensure tests remain effective. Identify common refactoring candidates and use the provided checklist to verify that your software testing meets best practices.

Does test-driven development require specific testing frameworks or coding standards?

Test-driven development does not require specific frameworks, but it relies on strict coding standards. The methodology provides a checklist of best practices to ensure your development practices maintain high software quality without external dependencies.

Why does horizontal slicing create anti-patterns in software testing?

Horizontal slicing creates anti-patterns in software testing because it fragments behavior across layers. Test-driven development recommends vertical slices instead, ensuring tests validate complete feature behaviors rather than isolated implementation details.