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Test-Driven Development in Go

Dec 8, 2024
  • Golang
  • Testing
  • TDD
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    TDD keeps Go services reliable by forcing clarity up front. Start with a failing test, make it pass, then refactor until the intent is obvious.

    Start with the contract

    Define the handler or service contract first. Tests should describe behavior: inputs, outputs, and error cases, not the implementation details.

    Structure your tests

    Table-driven tests are the backbone of Go. They keep assertions compact and make it easy to add edge cases as the system grows.

    Sample flow: `go test ./...` for fast feedback and `go test -run TestName` during refactors.

    Layer integration safely

    Once units are solid, add integration tests around the persistence layer and external APIs. Keep fixtures lightweight and reset state on every run.

    Refactor with confidence

    TDD shines when requirements change. With tests in place, you can restructure packages, swap dependencies, or optimize performance without fear of silent regressions.