Debugging a Node.js Application: A Comprehensive Guide

Debugging is a crucial skill for any developer, and in Node.js, there are many tools and techniques available to make this process efficient. Let’s walk through the core steps and best practices for debugging Node.js applications, from using built-in tools to leveraging more advanced options.

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1. Using console.log() Effectively

This is often the first step for many developers. Using console.log() statements strategically can provide insights into variables, function outputs, and flow control. However, overusing it can clutter your code and console, so it's best suited for quick checks.

Tips for Better console.log() Debugging:

• Use descriptive labels to make logs easy to understand:

console.log("Value of user:", user);

• Log only what you need, and remove logs after you’ve solved the issue.
• Use console.error() for error outputs, which can help distinguish errors in the console.

2. Built-in Debugger

Node.js has a built-in debugger that lets you step through code line-by-line. This can be more…