test-driven-development

Guide test-first development through red-green-refactor cycles.

4|Updated Jan 10, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/atxinsky/skills --skill test-driven-development-atxinsky
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
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Skill: test-driven-development
Source: https://github.com/atxinsky/skills/tree/main/test-driven-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/atxinsky/skills --skill test-driven-development-atxinsky

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Test-Driven Development (TDD) provides a disciplined workflow that ensures software behavior is validated by tests before any production code is written, reducing regressions and enabling safer refactoring.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Red-Green-Refactor cycle: Write a failing test, implement the minimal production code to pass, then clean up without changing behavior.
  • Preventive design through tests: Define expected behavior early to catch edge cases and drive API design.
  • Use-case coverage: Applicable during new features, bug fixes, and refactors to maintain high confidence in changes.

Quick Start

  1. Write a failing test that specifies the desired behavior.
  2. Run the test to observe the failure, then implement the simplest code to make it pass.
  3. Re-run all tests and refactor for clarity while keeping tests green.

Frequently Asked Questions about test-driven-development

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

FAQPage Schema
What is the test-driven development workflow for writing unit tests?

Test-driven development uses the Red-Green-Refactor cycle: write a failing test to specify behavior, implement minimal code to pass, then refactor without changing behavior to ensure safer refactoring.

How do I fix bugs and prevent regressions using test-first programming?

Test-first programming prevents regressions by requiring you to write a failing test that specifies the desired behavior before implementing the bug fix or production code.

Can I use the red-green-refactor cycle for refactoring existing code?

Yes, the red-green-refactor cycle supports refactoring by allowing you to clean up code for clarity while keeping all tests green, preventing behavior changes during the software engineering refactor.

Does test-driven development help with API design and edge cases?

Test-driven development drives preventive design by defining expected behavior early through tests, which catches edge cases and guides your API design before production code is written.

What's the best way to start writing minimal production code in TDD?

The best way to start TDD is to write a failing test for a specific feature, observe the failure, and then implement the simplest minimal production code required to make that test pass.