test-driven-development

Test-driven development is a coding approach where you write a failing test first, implement the minimal code to pass that test, and then refactor for maintainability. This red-green-refactor cycle helps reduce bugs and improve overall code quality.

To start writing failing tests for new features, define the expected behavior in a test case that initially fails, then write the minimal implementation code required to make that specific test pass, ensuring your feature is built around test requirements.

Yes, test-driven development is language-agnostic and applicable to any programming language or framework. The methodology focuses on structuring your development workflow around test quality principles rather than relying on specific technical environments.

Writing tests first improves code maintainability by forcing you to define clear requirements before implementation. This structured approach ensures your codebase has reliable tests, reducing bugs and making future refactoring safer and more manageable.

Test-driven development may not be ideal for exploratory programming or throwaway prototypes where requirements are highly volatile. If immediate delivery of a quick fix outweighs the need for long-term code quality and reliable tests, skipping the strict red-green-refactor loop might be more practical.