Debugging with Claude Code

Effective techniques for debugging code using Claude as your AI pair programmer

title: Debugging with Claude Code description: Effective techniques for debugging code using Claude as your AI pair programmer

Claude Code excels at helping you find and fix bugs. This guide covers techniques for effective debugging sessions, from simple errors to complex issues.

Debugging Workflow

1. Describe the Problem

Be specific about what's happening:

2. Share the Error

When you have error messages, share them in full:

3. Let Claude Investigate

Claude can search for relevant code:

Common Debugging Patterns

Pattern 1: Error-First Debugging

Start with the error message:

Claude will:

• Identify the root cause (server-only code in client component)
• Suggest specific fixes
• Explain why the error occurs

Pattern 2: Behavior Debugging

When there's no error, describe the behavior:

Pattern 3: Performance Debugging

For slow code or memory issues:

Pattern 4: Regression Debugging

When something that worked breaks:

Debugging Strategies

Binary Search with Git

Find when a bug was introduced:

Minimal Reproduction

Ask Claude to isolate the problem:

Log-Based Debugging

When you can't step through code:

Framework-Specific Debugging

React Debugging

API Debugging

State Management Debugging

Advanced Debugging Techniques

Conditional Breakpoints with Logging

Network Request Debugging

Memory Leak Detection

Debugging Best Practices

1. Reproduce First

Before fixing, ensure you can reproduce:

2. Understand Before Fixing

Ask Claude to explain the issue:

3. One Fix at a Time

Avoid multiple changes:

4. Test the Fix

After fixing:

Debugging Prompts Collection

Initial Investigation

Narrowing Down

Fix Verification

Root Cause Analysis

When You're Stuck

Rubber Duck Debugging

Use Claude as your rubber duck:

Fresh Perspective

Systematic Review

Next Steps

• Advanced prompting techniques
• Productivity tips
• Troubleshooting Claude Code