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TDD Workflow

Caution

Test-driven development skill that enforces the red-green-refactor cycle. Write failing tests first, then implement minimal code to pass.

By Anthropic 6,200 v1.1.0 Updated 2026-03-05

Install

Claude Code

Copy the SKILL.md file to .claude/skills/tdd-workflow.md

About This Skill

TDD Workflow enforces the classic red-green-refactor cycle in your AI-assisted development. Instead of writing code first, the agent writes a failing test, implements the minimum code to make it pass, then refactors.

The Cycle

  1. Red — Write a test that describes the desired behavior. Run it to confirm it fails.
  2. Green — Write the minimal implementation to make the test pass. No more, no less.
  3. Refactor — Clean up the code while keeping all tests green.
  4. Commit — Make a small, focused commit.

Why Use This Skill

  • Forces the agent to think about requirements before implementation
  • Produces code with built-in test coverage
  • Keeps implementations minimal and focused
  • Creates a natural commit rhythm with working checkpoints

Use Cases

  • Feature development with test-first approach
  • Bug fixing with regression test coverage
  • Refactoring with confidence
  • Teaching TDD methodology to teams

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • + Guarantees test coverage for new code
  • + Prevents over-engineering
  • + Creates clean commit history
  • + Works with any test framework

Cons

  • - Slower initial development pace
  • - Requires a working test runner in the project
  • - Not ideal for exploratory/prototyping work

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