test-driven-development

Guide developers through the RED-GREEN-REFACTOR cycle for writing production code.

7|4|Updated Feb 26, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/MadAppGang/magus --skill test-driven-development-madappgang
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
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Skill: test-driven-development
Source: https://github.com/MadAppGang/magus/tree/main/plugins/dev/skills/discipline/test-driven-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/MadAppGang/magus --skill test-driven-development-madappgang

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill prevents the common pitfalls of writing code without tests, ensuring robust, maintainable, and bug-free software by enforcing a disciplined development cycle.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Enforces RED-GREEN-REFACTOR: Guides developers through writing a failing test, making it pass, and then refactoring.
  • Prevents "Tests After": Eliminates the risky practice of writing tests only after implementation, which often leads to missed bugs.
  • Use Case: When developing a new user authentication module, use this Skill to first write tests for valid login, invalid password, and non-existent user scenarios before writing any authentication code.

Quick Start

Use the test-driven-development skill to write a failing test for a new function, then implement the function to make the test pass.

Frequently Asked Questions about test-driven-development

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I start writing code using test-driven development?

To start test-driven development, write a failing unit test for a new function before implementation, then write the production code to make it pass, and finally refactor. This enforces the red-green-refactor cycle.

What is the red-green-refactor cycle in TDD?

The red-green-refactor cycle in TDD is a disciplined process: write a failing test, implement code to make it pass, and then refactor. It prevents shipping untested or poorly tested software.

Why should I write tests before implementation instead of after?

Writing tests before implementation eliminates the risky practice of writing tests after coding, which often leads to missed bugs. It ensures robust, maintainable software by mandating a failing test first.

Does test-driven development work for UI components and API endpoints?

Test-driven development works for UI components and API endpoints by requiring adherence to specific testing patterns. It also covers pure functions and error handlers to ensure comprehensive code quality.

What's the best way to ensure code quality when building a new authentication module?

The best way to ensure code quality for an authentication module is using test-driven development: write tests for valid login, invalid password, and non-existent user scenarios before writing any authentication code.