test-driven-development

The red-green-refactor workflow in test-driven development involves writing a failing test first, implementing minimal production code to pass it, and then refactoring for readability. This enforces strict discipline to ensure software behavior is correct and safe.

To implement a feature using test-driven development, write a failing test that captures the intended behavior first. Then, write the minimal production code required to make the test pass, and finally refactor the code to improve readability and maintainability.

Test-driven development prevents regressions by requiring explicit test design before production code changes. These automated tests guard against regressions across features and bug fixes, enabling safer refactoring and faster debugging.

Yes, test-driven development is applied during feature implementation, bug fixes, and refactors in software projects. Writing failing tests first captures intended behavior and ensures code correctness regardless of the task type.

The best way to start writing tests before code is to write a single failing test that defines a specific behavior. Implement the minimal code to pass that test, then refactor safely. This documents your API surface and catches regressions early.

While metadata highlights test-driven development for features, bug fixes, and refactors, it does not specify exclusions. It enforces strict discipline for higher reliability, so avoid it if your context lacks automated testing infrastructure.