test-driven-development

Writing tests before implementation code requires a red-green-refactor cycle: write a failing test first, implement the minimal code to pass it, then refactor for readability. This clarifies requirements and provides a safety net before coding.

The red-green-refactor workflow drives development from failing tests to passing code and subsequent cleanup. You write a failing test, implement minimal code to pass, then refactor for clean, well-factored code.

Yes, test-first development suits both new features and bug fixes. It enforces a fail-first mindset to clarify expectations and prevents regressions by proving behavior before implementation.

Writing code without tests leads to regressions because expectations remain unclear and unverified. Enforcing a test-first mindset clarifies requirements and provides a safety net before coding.

The best way to prevent regressions when fixing bugs is enforcing a test-first approach. Forcing tests to prove behavior before implementation ensures minimal, clean code and prevents future regressions.