Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors in programming code; fundamental to successful software development, it is often a slow and painstaking task that presents a challenge to even experienced programmers.
Reviewed by Major Keary
Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors in programming code; fundamental to successful software development, it is often a slow and painstaking task that presents a challenge to even experienced programmers.
Recently published, The Art of Debugging with GDB, DDD, and Eclipse, is an authoritative guide to the process of debugging in general and the application of Open Source debugging tools in particular. The authors say, "This book is neither a glorified user's manual nor an abstract treatise on the cognitive theory of the debugging process. Instead it is something intermediate to these two genres. On the one hand ... [it presents] information on the 'how-to' for specific commands in GDB, DDD, and Eclipse; but on the other hand ... set[s] forth ... some general principles for the debugging process". Readers will find both specific advice for debugging with each tool, and explanations of general debugging strategies.
There is not a large body of literature—much of which is Microsoft-oriented—on the subject, and only a couple are recent publications. The Art of Debugging is a valuable resource for both professional programmers and those who want to learn the art of debugging—especially using GDB, DDD, and Eclipse.
There are people, such as administrators, who need more than a passing acquaintance with debugging. The first chapter is an excellent overview of the process using the tools described (GDB, DDD, and Eclipse). If you are likely to be responsible for bringing in a professional to debug your (or somebody else's) code, this chapter is essential reading.
However, the primary audience is programmers who want to develop the most effective techniques for debugging. The tools described cover command-line and GUI programs. Extensive use is made of didactic code that reflects real-world problems and solutions, and the text is well supported by screen shots and graphics. The authors are well known for their on-line debugging tutorials and have developed an exceptionally well honed way of presenting the subject. A clear, narrative style is used to good effect, neither patronising the reader nor drowning one in arcane discussion.
Topics covered include:
Matloff and Salzman: The Art of Debugging
ISBN 978-1-59327-174-9
Published by No Starch Press, 264 pp., RRP AU$69.95
No Starch titles are distributed in Australia by Woodslane <www.woodslane.com.au>.