Technology Fundamentals
Debugger
Definition
A debugger is a computer program used to test and find bugs (errors) in other programs. It allows a programmer to run their code line-by-line, inspect the state of variables, and see exactly where something goes wrong.
Why It Matters
Debugging is a critical part of software development. A debugger is an essential tool that gives programmers visibility into their code's execution, making it much easier to find and fix problems than just guessing.
Contextual Example
A developer can set a "breakpoint" in their code. When the program is run with a debugger, it will pause at that breakpoint, allowing the developer to examine the values of variables and understand the program's state at that exact moment.
Common Misunderstandings
- Debuggers are not automatic bug-fixers; they are tools that help a human programmer find the source of a bug.
- Most Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) have a built-in debugger.