Specification-driven development gives a coding agent a complete task instead of an open-ended conversational loop. The specification describes intent, scope, constraints and expected results so implementation can proceed with fewer interruptions.
A specification is most useful when it connects to independent verification. Small scoped work, tests and deterministic services let the agent correct mistakes and stop only after it reaches an agreed quality bar.
Acronyms and aliases
specification-first development synonymspec-driven development variant
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Why do coding agents benefit from explicit specifications?
Specifications reduce ambiguity, preserve intent across a longer run and provide conditions that the agent can test before returning work.
Is a specification the same as a prompt?
A prompt may request an action, while a specification describes required behavior, boundaries and evidence in enough detail to guide implementation and acceptance.
Videos explaining specification-driven development
