---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Tests that take too long to run end up…"
description: "\"“Tests that take too long to run end up not being run.”\" — Michael Feathers"
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e5d/michael-feathers-67849_long_tests-that-take-too-long-to-run-end-up-n_2472030.jpg"
---

#  Tests that take too long to run end up not being run.

![“Tests that take too long to run end up not being run.” quote by Michael Feathers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e5d/michael-feathers-67849_long_tests-that-take-too-long-to-run-end-up-n_2472030.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e5d/michael-feathers-67849_long_tests-that-take-too-long-to-run-end-up-n_2472030.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/e5d/michael-feathers-67849_long_tests-that-take-too-long-to-run-end-up-n_2472030.jpg)

> ““Tests that take too long to run end up not being run.””

[Michael Feathers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/michael-feathers/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Long-running tests become neglected, leading to them not being executed at all.

**In simple terms:** Avoid overly long tests.

Key Takeaway

Keep tests fast and maintainable.

Themes

software testing efficiency maintenance

Mood

practical analytical

Type

technical advisory

When to use this quote

- software development
- continuous integration
- team workflows

Key Concepts

test design technical debt

Questions to Reflect On

- How can you balance test thoroughness with speed?
- What strategies keep tests relevant?

A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex testing needs.

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