test-desiderata

Evaluate automated tests against Kent Beck's 12 Test Desiderata properties.

23|2|Updated Jan 11, 2026

Search Tags:#feedback #improvement #analyze #test-quality #test-desiderata #12-properties

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/eferro/augmentedcode-skills --skill test-desiderata

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: test-desiderata
Source: https://github.com/eferro/augmentedcode-skills/tree/main/test-desiderata
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/eferro/augmentedcode-skills --skill test-desiderata

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps software teams evaluate and improve test quality by applying Kent Beck's Test Desiderata framework, enabling consistent, data-driven improvements across test suites.

Core Features & Use Cases

Evaluates unit and integration tests against the 12 Desiderata properties (Isolated, Composable, Deterministic, Fast, Writable, Readable, Behavioral, Structure-insensitive, Automated, Specific, Predictive, Inspiring).
Delivers concrete, actionable recommendations and tradeoffs to raise overall test quality.
Works with multiple testing frameworks and languages, providing guidance for both new and legacy test suites.

Quick Start

Analyze the tests in your codebase and apply the 12 Desiderata properties to identify high-impact improvements you can implement immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions about test-desiderata

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I evaluate automated test quality using Kent Beck's Test Desiderata?▼

Yes, you can analyze integration tests and unit tests across multiple languages and frameworks. The Test Desiderata framework evaluates any automated test code, applying the 12 properties to deliver concrete improvement recommendations regardless of the testing stack.

How do I get actionable feedback to fix flaky or slow tests?▼

Get actionable feedback by checking your tests against the Deterministic and Fast properties of the Test Desiderata. This analysis highlights specific tradeoffs and provides concrete recommendations to resolve flakiness and improve execution speed.

Does Test Desiderata work for improving legacy test suites?▼

Yes, Test Desiderata works for improving legacy test suites. It evaluates existing automated test code against the 12 properties, identifying high-impact improvements and providing concrete recommendations for both new and legacy tests.

What are the 12 properties of test quality I should check my code against?▼

The 12 properties of test quality are Isolated, Composable, Deterministic, Fast, Writable, Readable, Behavioral, Structure-insensitive, Automated, Specific, Predictive, and Inspiring. Checking tests against these properties ensures clear evaluation criteria and traceable coverage.