What debugging techniques for new programmers actually work in real projects?

[StevenG]

I see so many beginners struggling with debugging and I want to compile a list of practical debugging techniques for new programmers. What are the most effective debugging tools and methods you've found for real-world projects? Not just theory, but actual debugging techniques for new programmers that work when you're stuck on a bug at 2 AM.

[Stephen31]

For debugging techniques for new programmers, I always start with the simplest approach: console logging strategically. But the real game-changer was learning to use proper debugging tools and methods like breakpoints and step-through debugging. Understanding how to effectively use debugging tools and methods cuts debugging time in half.

[Anthony.J]

One debugging technique for new programmers that works wonders is the rubber duck" method - explaining your code line by line to someone (or something) else. It sounds silly but it forces you to really understand what each part does. Also, learning to write test cases that reproduce bugs is crucial debugging techniques for new programmers.

[Joseph.J]

I teach my junior developers to always start debugging by reproducing the issue consistently. If you can't reproduce it, you can't fix it. Also, learning to read stack traces properly is one of those essential debugging techniques for new programmers that pays off immediately. Don't just scan for line numbers - understand what the trace is telling you.

[Amelia73]

For complex bugs, I use a binary search approach - disable half the code, see if the bug persists, then narrow down. This debugging technique for new programmers works surprisingly well. Also, learning to use conditional breakpoints in your debugging tools and methods can save hours of manual stepping through code.