Question

What is a debugger?

Short answer

Answer: A debugger is a software tool that helps programmers find and fix errors, also called bugs, in a computer program. Its main functions include setting breakpoints, stepping through code, inspecting variables, and inspecting the call stack. These features help programmers pinpoint the exact location of an error and determine the root cause of the problem.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of a debugger

A debugger is a software tool that helps programmers to find and fix errors, also called bugs, in a computer program. Debugging is a crucial part of the software development process, as it ensures that the final product operates as intended and provides a good user experience.

Main functions of a debugger

Debuggers provide several helpful features for detecting and diagnosing issues in software programs, including: 1. Setting breakpoints: A breakpoint is a specific point in the code where the debugger will temporarily stop the program's execution, allowing the programmer to investigate the program's state at that moment. 2. Stepping through the code: Debuggers enable programmers to execute code one line or statement at a time, making it easier to pinpoint the exact location of an error. 3. Inspecting variables: Debuggers typically provide a way for programmers to view the values of variables at any point during the program's execution, which can help identify incorrect values that lead to bugs. 4. Call stack inspection: Debuggers often provide a way to view the call stack – a list of all active function calls in the program. This information can help programmers understand how the code's flow of execution led to an error.

How a debugger works

A debugger works by attaching itself to a running program or launching a new instance of the program. Once connected to the program, the debugger can control its execution and inspect its internal state. Debuggers typically have their user interface (either graphical or text-based) to allow the programmer to interact with the debugging tools. By using a debugger, programmers can identify the root cause of an error and potentially fix the issue directly from the debugger user interface, or they can take note of the problem and correct it within the source code before recompiling and retesting the program.