test-driven-development

Test-driven development eliminates untested code by requiring a failing test before implementation begins. It enforces a strict Red-Green-Refactor cycle, ensuring every feature is verified by automated tests to prevent bugs in existing functionality.

You start test-driven development for a new API endpoint by writing a failing test case first. Then implement only the necessary logic to make that test pass, ensuring the code is both correct and necessary.

Yes, you need a testing framework like pytest to apply test-driven development. It is required to validate behavior and ensure code quality through iterative cycles when fixing bugs.

Test-driven development prevents regressions by ensuring all new code is backed by automated tests. During refactoring, these tests validate that existing functionality remains intact while improving code structure.

The best way to guide an agent through TDD methodology is to enforce the mandatory red-green-refactor cycle. This requires writing a failing test, implementing minimal code, and refactoring iteratively to ensure quality code.