test-driven-development

Enforce a test-first workflow with red-green-refactor cycles.

2|Updated Mar 2, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/tizee/skills --skill test-driven-development-tizee
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: test-driven-development
Source: https://github.com/tizee/skills/tree/main/superpowers-skills/test-driven-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/tizee/skills --skill test-driven-development-tizee

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Behavior drift is common when implementing features without automated tests. This skill enforces a test-first workflow to catch regressions early and guide reliable development.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Establishes a red-green-refactor cycle to validate intended behavior before coding.
  • Improves maintainability and confidence by building a living test suite around features and fixes.
  • Use Case: when adding a new feature or fixing a bug, define failing tests first and then implement minimal code to pass.

Quick Start

Begin by writing a failing test for the desired behavior, then implement the minimal code to pass.

Frequently Asked Questions about test-driven-development

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

FAQPage Schema
How does test-driven development prevent behavior drift in software engineering?

Test-driven development prevents behavior drift by enforcing a test-first workflow that validates intended behavior before implementation, catching regressions early through a red-green-refactor cycle.

How do I start writing failing tests before implementing new features?

Begin by writing a failing test for the desired behavior, then implement the minimal code required to pass that test. This establishes a living test suite that improves maintainability and confidence.

Can I use the red-green-refactor cycle when fixing bugs and refactoring?

Yes, the red-green-refactor cycle applies during feature development, bug fixes, refactoring, and behavioral changes across projects where verified behavior before coding is required.

What is the best way to ensure reliable software without skipping tests during development?

The best way to ensure reliability is using a test-first workflow that provides guardrails against skipping tests, forcing you to define failing tests before writing any implementation code.

Why should I write tests first instead of adding automated tests after coding?

Writing tests first catches regressions early and guides reliable development by validating intended behavior before coding, whereas testing afterward often leads to behavior drift and weaker coverage.