Which statement accurately describes test-driven development?

Test-driven development (TDD) is fundamentally centered around the principle that tests are written based on the requirements and specifications of the software before any actual code is developed. This methodology emphasizes the creation of automated tests that define how the code should behave. By starting with the tests, developers clarify the functionality needed and ensure that new code adheres to these predetermined specifications.

This approach leads to a more thorough understanding of requirements and encourages better design choices. As developers code to pass the tests they have established, they are continually verifying that the code meets the desired criteria throughout the development process. This iterative cycle of testing and coding not only enhances the quality of the software being developed but also facilitates easier identification and correction of errors.

In contrast, the other statements do not align with the TDD philosophy. For instance, claiming that testing is optional until the software is complete contradicts the TDD approach, which prioritizes testing from the very beginning. Similarly, the notion that tests are written only after functionality is implemented goes against the core tenet of TDD, which requires testing to drive development. Finally, stating that development focuses exclusively on coding with no testing overlooks the integral role that testing plays in ensuring software quality and responsiveness to requirements in the TDD methodology.