I’ve been learning Python and have done a few projects. However, when I make small changes to working code, it often breaks, possibly due to indentation issues. How can I get better at debugging? It’s frustrating when enhancements cause everything to stop working.
Debugging in Python (or any programming language) can definitely be frustrating, especially when small changes seem to break everything. However, there are a few habits and strategies you can develop to make the process easier and less error-prone:
- Break down changes into smaller pieces: Instead of making multiple enhancements at once, try to focus on one small improvement at a time. After each change, test the code to make sure it still works. This helps narrow down which change might be causing the issue.
- Use print statements: Inserting
print()at strategic points in your code can help you understand the flow and what values your variables hold at certain stages. It’s a quick and easy way to see where things might be going wrong. - Check indentation carefully: Python is especially sensitive to indentation. Try using a code editor like VSCode, PyCharm, or even a plugin for Sublime Text. These editors highlight indentation issues and will often give you warnings if your indentation is inconsistent.
- Learn how to read error messages: Python’s error messages are usually pretty informative. Don’t just skip over them—take a moment to read through them and understand what’s being flagged. They’ll often point you to the exact line where things went wrong.
- Use version control: Tools like Git can be a lifesaver. You can commit your working code before making changes, and if something breaks, you can easily revert to the last working version. This way, you don’t have to worry about losing good progress.
- Try an interactive debugger: Python has a built-in debugger (
pdb) that lets you step through your code one line at a time. It allows you to inspect variables and understand exactly what the code is doing at any given moment. - Write tests for your code: As your projects grow, writing even simple tests can be extremely helpful. If something breaks, you can run your tests and see what exactly is no longer working.
Being patient and methodical in your approach is key. With practice, debugging will feel less like a roadblock and more like a process of discovery.