SKILL: Test-Driven Development (TDD)
Purpose: Execute TDD Red-Green-Refactor cycle for feature implementation Target: Coder Agent implementing features with test-first methodology ⚠️ Subagents Only: This skill is for coder/tester subagents. Main orchestrator must delegate via Task tool.
Quick Start
When to Use This Skill
- •Implement new feature with test coverage
- •Fix bug with regression tests
- •Refactor code with test safety net
Quick Reference
# Red: pytest tests/test_feature.py -k "SC-1" # FAIL # Green: [Implement feature] # Refactor: [Refactor code] # Verify: pytest # ALL PASS
What This Skill Covers
In Scope
- •Red-Green-Refactor cycle execution
- •Test-first development methodology
- •Minimal implementation for Green phase
Out of Scope
- •Test framework selection → @.claude/skills/tdd/REFERENCE.md
- •Coverage thresholds → @.claude/skills/ralph-loop/SKILL.md
- •Code quality standards → @.claude/skills/vibe-coding/SKILL.md
Core Concepts
The TDD Cycle: Red-Green-Refactor
Phase 1: Red - Write Failing Test
def test_add_two_numbers():
result = calculator.add(2, 3)
assert result == 5
Run test → Confirm it FAILS (❌)
Phase 2: Green - Minimal Implementation
def add(a, b):
return a + b # Just enough to pass
Run test → Confirm it PASSES (✅)
Phase 3: Refactor - Improve Quality
def add(a: int, b: int) -> int:
"""Add two integers with type safety."""
return a + b
Run ALL tests → Confirm ALL PASS (✅)
Why TDD Matters
- •Tests drive design: API designed from usage perspective
- •Regression safety: Refactor without fear
- •Living documentation: Tests show intended behavior
- •Fast feedback: Catch issues immediately
Further Reading
Internal: @.claude/skills/tdd/REFERENCE.md - Advanced TDD concepts, patterns, and examples | @.claude/skills/ralph-loop/SKILL.md - Autonomous completion loop | @.claude/skills/vibe-coding/SKILL.md - Code quality standards | @.claude/skills/tdd/REFERENCE.md - Test framework detection
External: Test-Driven Development by Kent Beck | Growing Object-Oriented Software, Guided by Tests