Test-Driven Development (TDD) FAQs

Question 1

How does the Red-Green-Refactor cycle work in Claude Code?

Accepted Answer

First, you write a minimal failing test (Red); then, you write the minimal code needed to pass (Green); finally, you clean up the code while ensuring tests remain green (Refactor).

Question 2

When should I use the TDD skill?

Accepted Answer

Use it for complex logic, algorithms, and critical business paths where bugs are likely, or whenever a user explicitly requests test coverage.

Question 3

Does this skill require tests for every piece of code?

Accepted Answer

No, it pragmatically suggests skipping TDD for UI components, simple CRUD operations, and straightforward mappings where manual testing or linting is sufficient.

Question 4

Why is TDD preferred over writing tests after implementation?

Accepted Answer

Writing tests first proves the test can catch bugs. Tests written after often pass immediately, providing a false sense of security and potentially testing implementation rather than behavior.

Question 5

What is the primary rule of this TDD skill?

Accepted Answer

The core rule is 'No code without a failing test first.' This ensures the test actually verifies the intended behavior by requiring it to fail before implementation.

Test-Driven Development (TDD)

Key Features

Use Cases

Test-Driven Development (TDD)

Key Features

Use Cases