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.