Debugging is one of the most time-consuming parts of development. Developers often spend hours identifying errors and finding solutions.
ChatGPT can assist in debugging by analyzing error messages, reviewing code logic, and suggesting possible fixes.
However, developers must verify solutions carefully before applying them.
1. Fixing Syntax Errors
If you encounter syntax errors, you can paste the error message and related code.
Example Prompt:
I am getting this error in PHP: “Undefined index: email”. Here is my code:
[paste code]
Please explain the issue and suggest a fix.
ChatGPT can:
- Identify the cause
- Explain why it happens
- Suggest correction
This saves debugging time.
2. Understanding Framework Errors
Example Prompt:
In CodeIgniter 3, I am getting “Call to undefined method” error. Here is my controller code:
[paste code]
Explain the issue and solution.
Framework-specific context improves accuracy.
3. Debugging SQL Errors
Example Prompt:
This MySQL query gives syntax error. Please correct it and explain what was wrong:
[paste query]
ChatGPT can:
- Identify syntax issues
- Suggest optimized query
- Explain improvements
Always test query before production use.
4. Fixing Logical Errors
Some errors are not syntax-related but logical.
Example Prompt:
This function is not returning correct result. Analyze the logic and suggest improvements.
[paste function]
ChatGPT can:
- Review logic
- Identify flaws
- Suggest better approach
5. Debugging JavaScript Issues
Example Prompt:
My JavaScript form validation is not working properly. Here is the code:
[paste code]
Find the issue and fix it.
ChatGPT can analyze common mistakes.
6. Explaining Error Messages
Sometimes developers do not understand error messages.
Example Prompt:
Explain this Laravel error in simple words and suggest how to fix it:
[paste error message]
This improves understanding.
7. Improving Error Handling
Example Prompt:
Improve error handling in this PHP function and add proper validation.
[paste code]
ChatGPT can suggest:
- Try-catch blocks
- Validation improvements
- Better exception handling
8. Step-by-Step Debugging Method
Instead of asking for a full solution immediately:
Step 1: Ask what the error means
Step 2: Ask for possible causes
Step 3: Ask for corrected version
Step 4: Ask for optimization
This structured debugging works better.
9. Best Practices While Debugging with ChatGPT
- Provide full error message
- Share relevant code only
- Mention programming language and version
- Mention framework version
- Explain expected output
More context = better solution.
10. Important Warning
Do not:
- Copy fix without understanding
- Apply changes in production directly
- Ignore security implications
Always:
- Test locally
- Review changes
- Validate security
AI suggestions should be verified.
Example of Strong Debug Prompt
Weak Prompt:
My code is not working.
Strong Prompt:
I am using PHP 8.1 with CodeIgniter 3. I am getting “Undefined variable” error on line 45. Here is my controller code:
[paste code]
Explain the issue and suggest best practice solution.
Structured prompts give better debugging help.
Advantages of Using ChatGPT for Debugging
- Faster problem identification
- Better understanding of errors
- Learning opportunity
- Reduced development time
But human verification is mandatory.
Summary
ChatGPT can assist developers in debugging syntax errors, logical errors, framework issues, SQL problems, and JavaScript bugs. It helps explain error messages and suggest fixes.
However, developers must test and verify all suggested solutions before implementing them.
In the next tutorial, we will explore Code Optimization and Refactoring, which helps improve performance and maintainability.