Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Common Python Errors and How to Fix Them
- Syntax Errors
- Indentation Errors
- Name Errors
- Type Errors
- Index Errors
- Debugging Python in PyCharm
- Setting Breakpoints
- Running Debug Mode
- Using Debugging Tools
- Debugging Python in VS Code
- Setting Up the Debugger
- Running Debug Mode
- Using Debugging Features
- Tips for Effective Debugging
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
Debugging Python is an essential skill for every developer. Whether you’re working on small scripts or large applications, encountering bugs is inevitable. Luckily, powerful tools like PyCharm and VS Code can help you troubleshoot errors efficiently.
In this guide, we will explore the 10 best ways to debug Python, fix common errors, and leverage PyCharm and VS Code’s debugging features.
2. Common Python Errors and How to Fix Them
2.1 Syntax Errors
These occur when Python fails to understand your code due to incorrect syntax.
Example:
print("Hello, World!
💡 Fix: Ensure all quotes and brackets are properly closed.
print("Hello, World!")
2.2 Indentation Errors
Python relies on indentation; missing spaces cause errors.
Example:
def greet():
print("Hello!")
💡 Fix: Properly indent your code.
def greet():
print("Hello!")
2.3 Name Errors
Occurs when referencing an undefined variable.
Example:
print(my_variable)
💡 Fix: Define the variable before using it.
my_variable = "Python"
print(my_variable)
2.4 Type Errors
Mismatching data types can cause type errors.
Example:
age = "25"
print(age + 5)
💡 Fix: Convert the string to an integer.
age = int("25")
print(age + 5)
2.5 Index Errors
Happens when accessing an index that doesn’t exist.
Example:
numbers = [1, 2, 3]
print(numbers[5])
💡 Fix: Check the index before accessing elements.
print(numbers[-1])
3. Debugging Python in PyCharm
3.1 Setting Breakpoints
- Open your Python script in PyCharm.
- Click on the left margin next to a line of code to set a breakpoint (a red dot appears).
3.2 Running Debug Mode
- Click the bug icon 🐞 or press Shift + F9.
- The debugger stops at the breakpoint, allowing variable inspection.
3.3 Using Debugging Tools
- Step Over (F8): Run the next line without entering functions.
- Step Into (F7): Dive into function calls.
- Evaluate Expressions: Check variable values in real-time.
4. Debugging Python in VS Code
4.1 Setting Up the Debugger
- Install the Python extension from the VS Code Marketplace.
- Open your script and click on the left margin to add breakpoints.
4.2 Running Debug Mode
- Press F5 or click Run and Debug.
- Choose Python File to start debugging.
4.3 Using Debugging Features
- Variable Explorer: Monitor variable values live.
- Watch Expressions: Track specific variables.
- Call Stack: See function calls and traceback.
5. Tips for Effective Debugging Python
✅ Use Print Statements: If you don’t have a debugger, print statements help track variable changes.
✅ Check Error Messages: Python’s traceback messages provide important hints.
✅ Use Logging: The logging module offers better insights than print statements.
✅ Test Small Sections: Debugging small code blocks is easier than tackling an entire script.
6. Conclusion
Mastering debugging Python is crucial for efficient coding. By understanding common errors and using PyCharm and VS Code’s debugging tools, you can troubleshoot faster and write error-free Python code. Implement these tips today and improve your Python debugging skills! 🚀
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Debugging Python in PyCharm & VS Code
1. What is debugging in Python?
Debugging in Python is the process of finding and fixing errors (bugs) in the code. It helps developers identify issues, understand program flow, and improve software performance.
2. How do I debug Python code in PyCharm?
To debug Python in PyCharm:
1. Open your Python script in PyCharm.
2. Click on the left margin to set breakpoints.
3. Press Shift + F9 or click the bug icon 🐞 to start debugging.
4. Use Step Over (F8), Step Into (F7), and Variable Explorer for troubleshooting.
3. How do I set up Python debugging in VS Code?
To debug Python in VS Code:
1. Install the Python extension from the VS Code Marketplace.
2. Open your script and set breakpoints by clicking on the left margin.
3. Press F5 or click Run and Debug.
4. Choose Python File to start debugging.
4. What are common Python errors and how can I fix them?
Here are some common Python errors and their solutions:
– SyntaxError – Check for missing quotes or brackets.
– IndentationError – Ensure correct indentation with spaces/tabs.
– NameError – Declare variables before using them.
– TypeError – Match data types correctly (e.g., convert string to integer).
– IndexError – Avoid accessing out-of-range list indexes.
5. Why is my Python debugger not working in PyCharm?
If the debugger isn’t working in PyCharm, try these fixes:
✅ Ensure your Python interpreter is correctly set up.
✅ Restart PyCharm and try running in debug mode again.
✅ Disable third-party plugins that may cause conflicts.
✅ Check for software updates and install the latest version of PyCharm.
6. Why is my Python script not running in VS Code?
If your Python script isn’t running in VS Code, try these fixes:
✅ Check if Python is installed (python --version in the terminal).
✅ Ensure the correct interpreter is selected (Ctrl + Shift + P → “Python: Select Interpreter”).
✅ Open the script in the correct folder and run it using the terminal (python script.py).
7. How do breakpoints help in Python debugging?
Breakpoints pause the execution of code at specific lines, allowing developers to inspect variables, function calls, and logic flow step by step. Both PyCharm and VS Code provide breakpoint debugging tools.
8. What is the difference between Step Over and Step Into in debugging?
–Step Over (F8): Executes the function but skips stepping into it.
–Step Into (F7): Goes inside function calls for deeper debugging.
9. How can I improve my Python debugging skills?
To become better at debugging Python, follow these tips:
✅ Use print statements to track variable values.
✅ Learn to read Python error messages carefully.
✅ Utilize logging instead of print for advanced debugging.
✅ Debug small sections of code before testing the entire script.
✅ Practice with real-world Python projects.
10. Is debugging in Python the same in PyCharm and VS Code?
The debugging process is similar in both PyCharm and VS Code, but their tools and UI differ. PyCharm offers an integrated debugger with advanced features, while VS Code provides a lightweight debugger with extensions for flexibility.
