Python coders sometimes run into errors, and it’s not just beginners either. The key to working out what’s wrong (and fixing our errors) is debugging. By the end of this article, you’ll know the most common types of errors you’ll encounter in Python and how to debug them.
What is Debugging, Anyway?
No matter how good you are at programming, there will always be bugs to squash to ensure the program works as expected.Debuggingmeans identifying a problem that prevents code from executing as expected and correcting the problem or finding a way around it. I remember my first Python project after “Hello World.” There were so many bugs in it that the compiler bailed out on me. Once you’veinstalled Python, let’s dive right in so the same doesn’t happen to you.
What Are Some Common Python Function Errors?
When a piece of code has errors, it won’t compile or run. Typically, a compiler or interpreter for theprogramming languagewill tell you what type of error they have. It’s up to you to work out how to fix that error. The most common error types in Python include:
Syntax Errors
All programming languages have a structure called syntax, which is a bit like grammar in written or spoken language. If something doesn’t obey the syntax rules, the compiler will throw an error, most times with a suggestion on how to fix it.
In the code below, the compiler would complain that it expects a colon (:) after the “if” statement since this symbol denotes the start of the new block.
Runtime Errors (Exceptions)
As the name suggests, a runtime error happens while the program is running. These are a little harder to figure out since the compiler won’t catch them, and they’ll only show up when you’re running the program. These are also called exceptions, which usually lead to the program getting stuck while running and needing to force close.
In the following code, dividing by 0 is a capital sin in Mathematics and will give a “divide by zero” error during runtime.
Logic Errors
Logic errors happen when a program gives the wrong result or executes abnormally. Typically, logic errors are the fault of the programmer, but they can be just as challenging to find since they may compile and allow the coder to run the program. The programmer only knows they have a logic error when they put in test data and get the wrong answer.
The following code will return the wrong answer because it should add i+1 entries and instead only adds up to i, effectively excluding the last value in the sum.
How Do I Get Started Debugging?
How do you start with debugging Python functions effectively? A few of the effective methods of debugging a program include:
A Checklist for Effective Debugging in Python
First thing first – Don’t Panic. Python is such an approachable language thateven kids can use it, so you should be able to as well, right? you’re able to quickly figure out what’s wrong with your code by following this handy check sheet:
Don’t Be Daunted by Mistakes
Bugs are as common to programming as breathing is to you. Sometimes, even the most experienced programmers can face problems because of carelessness or sleep deprivation. Mistakes will happen, and when they do, the aim should be to figure out why they happened and learn from them. These tips can speed up the process of finding and fixing your Python issues before they frustrate you.
