test-driven-development

Enforce test-first development through RED, GREEN, and REFACTOR cycles.

3|5|Updated Apr 26, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/casualjim/pi-superpowers --skill test-driven-development-casualjim
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: test-driven-development
Source: https://github.com/casualjim/pi-superpowers/tree/main/skills/test-driven-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/casualjim/pi-superpowers --skill test-driven-development-casualjim

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

TDD enforces a discipline where tests define the expected behavior before any production code is written, reducing regressions and clarifying requirements.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Write a failing test first (RED) and verify it fails as expected.
  • Implement the minimal production code to pass the test (GREEN).
  • Refactor safely while maintaining green tests (REFACTOR), guided by guardrails and workflow monitoring.

Quick Start

Start by writing a failing test for the desired behavior, then implement the smallest amount of production code to pass it.

Frequently Asked Questions about test-driven-development

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

FAQPage Schema
How does test-driven development prevent software regressions?

Test-driven development prevents regressions by enforcing a fail-first discipline where tests define expected behavior before production code is written, clarifying requirements and ensuring ongoing code correctness.

What is the red green refactor cycle in TDD?

The red green refactor cycle in TDD starts with writing a failing test (RED), implementing minimal code to pass (GREEN), and safely improving the design while tests maintain green status (REFACTOR).

How do I apply test-first development to bug fixes and refactoring?

Apply test-first development to bug fixes and refactoring by initially writing a failing test that reproduces the bug or validates the refactor, then guiding through RED, GREEN, and REFACTOR cycles with phase-based checks.

Can I use TDD guardrails for end-to-end workflow monitoring?

Yes, TDD guardrails provide end-to-end workflow monitoring and phase-based checks during the RED, GREEN, and REFACTOR cycles to prevent regressions and ensure code correctness across feature work.

When should I not use test-driven development for software engineering?

Test-driven development is less suited for exploratory prototyping where requirements are undefined, as the discipline requires defining expected behavior through a failing test before any production code is written.