Hi,
I do it like I recommend it in my posts:
* I read the datasheet. Yes, honestly. It´s boring. But I see no way around.
* then I follow the rules for component selection
* then I draw the schematic
* then I follow the rules for PCB layout
* and I make a PCB. Usually the first prototype runs.
For switching power circuits I see no use in testing them on a breadboard.
What do one expect from a breadboard test?
* If it runs --> the datasheet told the truth
* if it doesn´t run --> the datsheet still tells the truth, but the test was bad.
--> trust in the datasheet and waste no time.
Klaus