Test-Driven Development (TDD)

Overview

Test-Driven Development (TDD) is a software development approach where you write tests before you write the production code. Its purpose is to ensure high code coverage, deep understanding of requirements before implementation, and a robust safety net for future refactoring. Invoke this skill when starting a new feature or when asked to write tests for existing code that currently lacks coverage.

Core Principles

• Red-Green-Refactor: This is the heartbeat of TDD.
  • Red: Write a test that fails.
  • Green: Write the minimal code to pass the test.
  • Refactor: Improve the code structure without altering behavior.
• YAGNI (You Aren't Gonna Need It): Only write code that is required to pass the current failing test. Do not anticipate future requirements.
• Single Responsibility: Each test should verify exactly one logical concept or behavior.

Preparation Checklist

• Have the feature requirements clearly defined.
• Set up the testing framework in your project environment.
• Ensure you can easily execute tests from your command line or IDE.