Prompt for Generating Module Tests

[capitalist]

Could define:

• General structure/approach to testing
• What test helpers are available
• What fixtures are available
• What's out of scope for the tests because it's better covered by tests from some other module

[marcelotto]

Thank you for your input regarding the idea of generating module tests using Magma. Your proposal raises some interesting points. Initially, I had considered the inclusion of tests in Magma's scope. However, I see some potential issues with automating the generation of tests. This approach might inadvertently encourage a less ideal development style. Given that it's a good software development practice to adhere to Test-Driven Development (TDD) principles and write tests first, relying on generated tests could be counterproductive. This concern is why the idea of generating tests is not very high on my priority list.

Nevertheless, I recognize that for a small number of projects that currently lack tests, this feature could indeed be relevant and interesting. To implement this, a new artefact type for module tests would need to be created. However, I would recommend defining a separate artefact type for test fixtures.

Speaking of test fixtures, I find them to be particularly interesting. They could potentially be extracted from existing tests, which would be useful not only during the initial test-driven development phase but also for enhancing current test suites.

Moreover, the idea of incorporating test properties for property-based testing is intriguing. Property-based testing is not very widespread, and many developers could benefit from guidance in this area.

As interesting as all these ideas are, I must inform you that I won't have the time to dedicate to them in the near future. Magma originated as a side project during the development and documentation of another project. My focus, for now, will be on delivering the features outlined in the roadmap. Once these are completed, my attention will shift back to finalizing the other project for a while. However, I will continue to perform bug fixes and maintenance tasks. Additionally, I welcome any pull requests and am more than happy to provide assistance with their creation, as long as it remains within a manageable scope.