Debugging with VS Code in Node.js - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the purpose of the launch.json file in VS Code debugging?

The launch.json file configures how VS Code starts and attaches the debugger to your Node.js application. It defines settings like the program entry point, environment variables, and runtime arguments.

beginner

How do breakpoints help during debugging in VS Code?

Breakpoints pause the running program at specific lines of code. This lets you inspect variables, check program flow, and find bugs step-by-step.

beginner

What is the function of the Debug Console in VS Code?

The Debug Console shows output from your program and lets you run commands or evaluate expressions while paused in the debugger.

beginner

Which VS Code feature allows you to step over, step into, and step out of functions during debugging?

The stepping controls let you move through your code line-by-line or jump into and out of functions to understand program behavior.

beginner

How can you inspect the value of a variable while debugging in VS Code?

You can hover your mouse over the variable in the editor or look at the Variables panel in the Debug view to see current values.

What file do you edit to configure how VS Code launches your Node.js app for debugging?

A package.json

B launch.json

C settings.json

D tasks.json

The launch.json file tells VS Code how to start and attach the debugger to your app.

What happens when you set a breakpoint in VS Code?

A The program pauses at that line during debugging

B The program runs faster

C The program skips that line

D The program restarts

Breakpoints pause execution so you can inspect the program state.

Which panel shows variable values while debugging in VS Code?

A Variables

B Problems

C Terminal

D Explorer

The Variables panel displays current values of variables during debugging.

What does the 'Step Into' button do during debugging?

A Exits the current function

B Skips the current line

C Runs the program to the end

D Enters into the function call on the current line

'Step Into' moves the debugger inside the function being called.

Where can you type commands or expressions to evaluate during a paused debug session?

A Problems panel

B Output panel

C Debug Console

D Explorer

The Debug Console lets you run commands and see output while debugging.

Explain how to set up and start debugging a Node.js app in VS Code.

Think about the steps from configuration to running the debugger.

Describe how breakpoints and stepping controls help find bugs in your code.

Focus on how you control program flow during debugging.