test-driven-development

Test-driven development (TDD) is a workflow where you write a failing test before implementation. The red-green-refactor cycle means writing a failing test, implementing minimal code to pass it, then refactoring while maintaining passing tests.

To start test-driven development, write a failing test defining the desired behavior, implement the minimal code required to pass that test, and then refactor the code for quality while keeping the test green.

Yes, test-driven development applies across projects and languages. It provides a repeatable workflow using the red-green-refactor cycle to improve code quality and maintainability regardless of the specific tech stack.

The best way to enforce automated discipline during refactoring is using a structured test-driven development workflow that requires a failing test before any implementation, ensuring minimal verifiable code and preventing skipped tests.

You should not use strict test-first development when exploring rapid prototypes where requirements are highly volatile, because the overhead of writing failing tests before minimal implementation can slow down immediate exploratory coding.