Introduction

Following our exploration of AI.TDD as a new paradigm, let's examine how the Baby Steps principle applies in the context of AI-assisted development. Baby Steps become even more crucial when working with AI, as they help maintain control and understanding of the development process.

AI.TDD Baby Steps Cycle


// Step 1: Write a minimal test
test('should create a new todo', () => {
  const todo = new Todo('Learn AI.TDD');
  expect(todo.title).toBe('Learn AI.TDD');
});

// Step 2: AI implements minimal code
class Todo {
  constructor(title) {
    this.title = title;
  }
}

// Step 3: Write next test
test('should mark todo as complete', () => {
  const todo = new Todo('Learn AI.TDD');
  todo.complete();
  expect(todo.isCompleted).toBe(true);
});

// Step 4: AI extends implementation
class Todo {
  constructor(title) {
    this.title = title;
    this.isCompleted = false;
  }
  
  complete() {
    this.isCompleted = true;
  }
}

Example Prompts for AI.TDD Baby Steps


// Prompt 1: Initial test
"Write a test for a Todo class that should have a title"

// Prompt 2: Implementation
"Implement the Todo class to make the test pass"

// Prompt 3: Next test
"Write a test to verify that a todo can be marked as complete"

// Prompt 4: Extension
"Extend the Todo class to support completion status"

Best Practices

  • Keep tests focused and minimal
  • Let AI implement one feature at a time
  • Review each step carefully
  • Maintain clear test descriptions

Conclusion

Baby Steps in AI.TDD help us maintain control and understanding while leveraging AI's capabilities. It's about finding the right balance between human guidance and AI assistance.