Test Driven Development
Test Driven Development (TDD) is a software development methodology where developers write automated tests before writing the actual code. It follows a cycle of writing a failing test, implementing minimal code to pass the test, and then refactoring the code while ensuring tests continue to pass. This approach emphasizes design, reduces bugs, and ensures code meets requirements from the start.
Developers should use TDD when building reliable, maintainable software, especially in agile environments or for complex systems where requirements evolve. It helps catch defects early, improves code quality through refactoring, and provides a safety net for changes, making it ideal for projects requiring high test coverage or frequent iterations, such as web applications or APIs.