tdd-red-phase

Write focused failing tests for the TDD Red Phase.

6|3|Updated Apr 25, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/formio/ai --skill tdd-red-phase-formio
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: tdd-red-phase
Source: https://github.com/formio/ai/tree/main/.cursor/skills/tdd-red-phase
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/formio/ai --skill tdd-red-phase-formio

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies the TDD Red Phase by providing guidelines for writing focused, failing tests that correctly identify missing behavior before implementation.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Guided Red Phase Tests: Offers a structured approach to writing Red Phase tests, focusing on the THEN/WHEN contract.
  • Unacceptable Failure Analysis: Identifies unacceptable failure reasons to ensure tests are reliable indicators of missing behavior.
  • Focus on Behavior: Emphasizes testing specific behaviors and minimizing implementation details in tests.
  • Use Case: Ideal for developers new to Red Phase TDD who want to establish clear test boundaries and failure points.

Quick Start

Write a failing test using the tdd-red-phase skill to verify that the 'save_user_profile' function does not exist yet.

Frequently Asked Questions about tdd-red-phase

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I write focused failing tests in test-driven development?

Writing focused failing tests in test-driven development requires a structured THEN/WHEN contract to verify specific missing behavior before implementation. This ensures the failure is a reliable indicator rather than an implementation detail.

What is the Red Phase in TDD and why are failing tests important?

The Red Phase in TDD is the initial stage where you write a failing test to correctly identify missing behavior before implementation. It establishes test reliability and strict behavioral verification boundaries.

How do I identify unacceptable failure reasons when writing failing tests?

Unacceptable failure reasons are identified by analyzing whether the test failure stems from missing behavior or incorrect test setup. This ensures tests remain reliable behavioral indicators of required functionality.

Can I use this Red Phase TDD approach for verifying missing functions?

Yes, you can use this Red Phase TDD approach to verify missing functions by writing a test that expects the target function to exist. The test fails because the behavior is entirely absent prior to implementation.

What are the limitations of focusing on behavior over implementation details in TDD?

Focusing on behavior over implementation details in TDD requires a thorough test setup to establish clear boundaries. Developers must minimize implementation specifics to maintain reliable behavioral verification.