tdd

Guide software engineers through the Test-Driven Development red-green-refactor loop with vertical slices.

Updated May 15, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ruskibeats/t1d --skill tdd-ruskibeats
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: tdd
Source: https://github.com/ruskibeats/t1d/tree/main/.agents/skills-archive/engineering/tdd
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ruskibeats/t1d --skill tdd-ruskibeats

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

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

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps users apply Test-Driven Development (TDD) principles to their coding process, ensuring robust and maintainable code through a red-green-refactor loop.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Test-First Development: Encourages writing tests before writing code, improving code quality and design.
  • Red-Green-Refactor Loop: Guides users through the process of writing a failing test (RED), making it pass (GREEN), and then refactoring (REFACTOR).
  • Vertical Slices: Instructs users to write one test and corresponding code at a time, ensuring focus and clarity.

Quick Start

Use the tdd skill to start a new test for a feature you're developing.

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 the red-green-refactor loop work?

Test-driven development is a test-first process where you write a failing test (RED), make it pass (GREEN), then refactor the code while tests pass. This loop ensures robust, maintainable software through disciplined vertical slices.

How do I start writing tests before code using a vertical slice approach?

To start test-first development, write one isolated test case for a specific feature slice, then implement the corresponding code. This vertical slice approach ensures focus and clarity before moving to the next failing test.

When should I use test-first development for my software engineering projects?

Use test-first development when you need to improve code quality, design, and maintainability. It is ideal for software engineers seeking disciplined refactoring practices and robust code through a structured red-green-refactor workflow.

Does test-driven development require specific testing frameworks or dependencies to get started?

No specific testing frameworks or dependencies are required. The test-driven development process relies on the red-green-refactor methodology itself, guiding you to write tests before code and refactor while tests pass using your existing stack.

What is the best way to maintain code quality while refactoring in test-driven development?

The best way to maintain code quality is to refactor only while your tests pass (GREEN phase). This test-first approach ensures structural improvements do not break existing functionality, yielding maintainable and robust software.