debugging

Systematic Debugging

Never fix without understanding the root cause.

Step 1: Reproduce

• Capture exact error message
• Note the inputs that trigger it
• Document the expected vs actual behavior

Step 2: Isolate

• Find the smallest reproducing case
• Check if issue is deterministic
• Identify affected components

Step 3: Hypothesize

• List 3 potential root causes
• Rank by probability
• Pick one to investigate

Step 4: Verify

• Add logging or breakpoints
• Run with minimal change
• Confirm or refute hypothesis

Step 5: Fix

• Implement targeted fix
• Add regression test
• Verify fix doesn't break elsewhere

Anti-Patterns

• Never try random changes
• Never silence exceptions
• Never assume environment issue without proof