Skills Development Achieving Green Phase with Minimal Code

Achieving Green Phase with Minimal Code

v20260509
tdd-workflows-tdd-green
This skill guides developers through the 'Green' phase of Test-Driven Development (TDD). It focuses on implementing the absolute minimum code required to satisfy failing tests, allowing the system to pass tests quickly. It is ideal for initial scaffolding and proving functionality, delaying complex design decisions until the refactoring phase.
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Overview

Green Phase: Simple function

def product_list(request): products = Product.objects.all() return JsonResponse({'products': list(products.values())})

Refactor: Class-based view

class ProductListView(View): def get(self, request): products = Product.objects.all() return JsonResponse({'products': list(products.values())})

Refactor: Generic view

class ProductListView(ListView): model = Product context_object_name = 'products'


### Express Patterns

**Inline → Middleware → Service Layer:**
```javascript
// Green Phase: Inline logic
app.post('/api/users', (req, res) => {
  const user = { id: Date.now(), ...req.body };
  users.push(user);
  res.json(user);
});

// Refactor: Extract middleware
app.post('/api/users', validateUser, (req, res) => {
  const user = userService.create(req.body);
  res.json(user);
});

// Refactor: Full layering
app.post('/api/users',
  validateUser,
  asyncHandler(userController.create)
);

Use this skill when

  • Moving from red to green in a TDD cycle
  • Implementing minimal behavior to satisfy tests
  • You want to keep implementation intentionally simple

Do not use this skill when

  • You are refactoring for design or performance
  • Tests are already passing and you need new requirements
  • You need a full architectural redesign

Instructions

  1. Review failing tests and identify the smallest fix.
  2. Implement the minimal change to pass the next test.
  3. Run tests after each change to confirm progress.
  4. Record shortcuts or debt for the refactor phase.

Safety

  • Avoid bypassing tests to make them pass.
  • Keep changes scoped to the failing behavior only.

Resources

  • resources/implementation-playbook.md for detailed patterns and examples.

Limitations

  • Use this skill only when the task clearly matches the scope described above.
  • Do not treat the output as a substitute for environment-specific validation, testing, or expert review.
  • Stop and ask for clarification if required inputs, permissions, safety boundaries, or success criteria are missing.
Info
Category Development
Name tdd-workflows-tdd-green
Version v20260509
Size 9.26KB
Updated At 2026-05-10
Language