test-driven-development

Enforce test-first development through RED, GREEN, and REFACTOR cycles.

3|5|Updated Apr 26, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/casualjim/pi-superpowers --skill test-driven-development-casualjim
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: test-driven-development
Source: https://github.com/casualjim/pi-superpowers/tree/main/skills/test-driven-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/casualjim/pi-superpowers --skill test-driven-development-casualjim

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

TDD enforces a discipline where tests define the expected behavior before any production code is written, reducing regressions and clarifying requirements.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Write a failing test first (RED) and verify it fails as expected.
  • Implement the minimal production code to pass the test (GREEN).
  • Refactor safely while maintaining green tests (REFACTOR), guided by guardrails and workflow monitoring.

Quick Start

Start by writing a failing test for the desired behavior, then implement the smallest amount of production code to pass it.

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 software regressions?▼

Test-driven development prevents regressions by enforcing a fail-first discipline where tests define expected behavior before production code is written, clarifying requirements and ensuring ongoing code correctness.

What is the red green refactor cycle in TDD?▼

The red green refactor cycle in TDD starts with writing a failing test (RED), implementing minimal code to pass (GREEN), and safely improving the design while tests maintain green status (REFACTOR).

How do I apply test-first development to bug fixes and refactoring?▼

Apply test-first development to bug fixes and refactoring by initially writing a failing test that reproduces the bug or validates the refactor, then guiding through RED, GREEN, and REFACTOR cycles with phase-based checks.

Can I use TDD guardrails for end-to-end workflow monitoring?▼

Yes, TDD guardrails provide end-to-end workflow monitoring and phase-based checks during the RED, GREEN, and REFACTOR cycles to prevent regressions and ensure code correctness across feature work.

When should I not use test-driven development for software engineering?▼

Test-driven development is less suited for exploratory prototyping where requirements are undefined, as the discipline requires defining expected behavior through a failing test before any production code is written.