test-driven-development

Enforce test-driven development by requiring failing tests before implementing code.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/RefractSystems/virtmcu --skill test-driven-development-refractsystems
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: test-driven-development
Source: https://github.com/RefractSystems/virtmcu/tree/main/.gemini/skills/test-driven-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/RefractSystems/virtmcu --skill test-driven-development-refractsystems

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Writing code without tests often leads to regressions and unclear expectations. This skill guides teams to adopt test-driven development so bugs are caught early and design is improved through red-green-refactor cycles.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Enforces writing failing tests before implementing code to define expected behavior.
  • Guides bug-fix workflows using the Prove-It Pattern to reproduce and verify fixes.
  • Promotes testing strategies like the Test Pyramid, descriptive tests, and gradual refactoring for maintainable code.

Quick Start

Write a failing unit test for a new feature, then implement the minimal code to pass the test and refactor if needed.

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 test-driven development for a new feature?

To start test-driven development, write a failing unit test that defines the expected behavior, then implement the minimal code required to pass that test before refactoring.

What is the Prove-It Pattern for fixing bugs?

The Prove-It Pattern is a test-driven development workflow for bug fixes where you first write a failing test that reproduces the bug, then verify your code changes make the test pass.

How does the Test Pyramid improve software quality during refactoring?

The Test Pyramid improves software quality during refactoring by guiding teams to maintain a strong base of meaningful unit tests, ensuring reliable design improvements and early bug detection.

Can I use test-driven development for both feature work and refactoring?

Yes, test-driven development applies across bug fixes, new feature work, and refactoring by enforcing red-green-refactor cycles to guide software design and ensure overall reliability.

Why write failing unit tests before implementing code?

Writing failing unit tests before implementing code enforces test-driven development by clearly defining expected behavior upfront, catching bugs early, and guiding reliable software design.

What's the best way to ensure meaningful unit tests in a software project?

The best way to ensure meaningful unit tests is to follow test-driven development, requiring tests to fail first, maintaining the Test Pyramid, and describing expected behavior clearly within the tests.