Debugging like a pro

I can’t tell you how important it is to know how to debug code. So as many of you know, I’m on YouTube making training videos. Most of the questions I get are about debugging issues people are having with their code.

The truth is, most of my time as a developer is spent debugging, not writing new code.

Video Tutorials

Here are some video tutorials on debugging techniques:

• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cLcmX3NcvM
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5JyrLnjExQ

Key Debugging Skills

1. Use browser developer tools - Learn to use the console, debugger, and network tabs
2. Read error messages carefully - They usually tell you exactly what’s wrong
3. Use console.log strategically - Track variable values and execution flow
4. Break down the problem - Isolate the issue by testing small pieces of code
5. Google is your friend - Someone has probably had your exact problem before

The faster you can debug, the more productive you’ll be as a developer. It’s a skill that separates good developers from great ones.