Passing Tests Bore Me

Why passing tests feel empty and what that reveals about test design

Passing tests should confirm you've solved the problem, but they often feel hollow—a sign that your tests aren't surfacing real design decisions or catching genuine mistakes. This mismatch suggests your test suite is validating implementation rather than behavior, leaving the actual craft of software design invisible.

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Questions this essay answers

  • Why do passing tests sometimes feel like they're not telling you anything useful?
  • What makes a test feel meaningful versus just checking boxes?
  • Are your tests discovering design problems or just confirming code paths?
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