test-driven-development

Test-driven development is a workflow where you write a failing test, implement minimal code to pass it, then refactor. This red-green-refactor cycle ensures code only implements needed behavior and is easier to refactor.

To write tests first, specify the desired behavior in a failing test, then implement the minimal production code required to pass that test. This incremental approach guides feature development and ensures correct behavior.

Yes, test-first development applies to bug fixes, refactoring, and behavior changes across software projects. Writing tests before changing code catches defects early and improves maintainability and confidence during changes.

Writing failing tests before implementation improves quality assurance by catching defects early. It ensures production code only implements what is needed, documents intended behavior clearly, and makes future refactoring safer.

The best way to start with test-driven development is to write a failing test that specifies the desired behavior for your feature, then implement the minimal code required to pass that test before refactoring.