What is the methodology called where test cases are developed before the software is created?

The methodology where test cases are developed before the software is created is known as Test-driven development (TDD). In TDD, developers write automated test cases prior to writing the actual code for the features. This practice is grounded in the principle that developers aim to create code that meets specific requirements validated by these initial tests. The concept follows a cycle of "Red-Green-Refactor," where a failing test (Red) indicates that the functionality isn’t implemented yet, the developer then writes the minimum amount of code necessary to pass the test (Green), and finally refactors the code to improve it while ensuring that the tests still pass.

This approach not only helps ensure that features are being developed to meet defined criteria from the outset but also decreases the likelihood of bugs as the code evolves. Additionally, TDD encourages more thoughtful and purposeful design decisions since the tests help clarify the requirements.

The other options relate to testing methodologies but do not specifically describe this practice. For instance, the test-first approach suggests a general concept of creating tests before the implementation; however, it is not as specifically linked to the systematic cycle found in TDD. The term test strategy refers to a comprehensive plan outlining the testing approach, while test session typically refers to a defined period