Definition
Behavior-Driven Development (BDD)
A development approach that describes software behavior in plain language using Given-When-Then format.
Full Definition
Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) is an agile methodology that encourages collaboration between developers, testers, and business stakeholders through shared understanding of software behavior.
BDD uses the Gherkin syntax:
- •Given: The initial context (preconditions)
- •When: The action or event
- •Then: The expected outcome
Example:
Given a registered user exists
When the user enters valid credentials
Then the user should see the dashboard
Benefits of BDD:
- •Shared language: Everyone understands requirements
- •Living documentation: Tests describe current behavior
- •Collaboration: Bridges technical and business teams
- •Automation: Gherkin can be automated with tools like Cucumber
BDD shifts focus from "how it works" to "what it does" from the user's perspective.
Examples
- 1.Given I am on the login page, When I enter valid credentials, Then I see the dashboard
- 2.Cucumber feature files describing checkout behavior
- 3.Three Amigos sessions writing scenarios together
In BesTest
BesTest supports BDD-style test cases with Given-When-Then format, enabling teams to write behavior-focused tests.
See Behavior-Driven Development (BDD) in Action
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