Bats Testing Patterns

Bats Testing Patterns

Comprehensive guidance for writing comprehensive unit tests for shell scripts using Bats (Bash Automated Testing System), including test patterns, fixtures, and best practices for production-grade shell testing.

Use this skill when

• Writing unit tests for shell scripts
• Implementing TDD for scripts
• Setting up automated testing in CI/CD pipelines
• Testing edge cases and error conditions
• Validating behavior across shell environments

Do not use this skill when

• The project does not use shell scripts
• You need integration tests beyond shell behavior
• The goal is only linting or formatting

Instructions

• Confirm shell dialects and supported environments.
• Set up a test structure with helpers and fixtures.
• Write tests for exit codes, output, and side effects.
• Add setup/teardown and run tests in CI.
• If detailed examples are required, open resources/implementation-playbook.md.

Resources

• resources/implementation-playbook.md for detailed patterns and examples.

Limitations

• Use this skill only when the task clearly matches the scope described above.
• Do not treat the output as a substitute for environment-specific validation, testing, or expert review.
• Stop and ask for clarification if required inputs, permissions, safety boundaries, or success criteria are missing.