Debugging Guide
A comprehensive approach to finding and fixing bugs efficiently
Debugging Fundamentals
Debugging is both an art and a science. The best debuggers combine systematic thinking with creative problem-solving. This section covers the fundamental principles that apply to debugging in any language or environment.
Understanding the Bug
- Reproduce the bug consistently
- Isolate when and where it occurs
- Identify expected vs. actual behavior
- Look for error messages and logs
- Determine if it's a regression or new issue
Inspection Methods
- Console/print debugging
- Using breakpoints and stepping
- Examining variable state
- Call stack analysis
- Environmental inspection
The Scientific Method for Debugging
- Observe: Gather information about the bug
- Hypothesize: Form a theory about what's causing it
- Experiment: Test your hypothesis
- Analyze: Evaluate the results
- Repeat: If the bug persists, form a new hypothesis