Basics

Apex Debugging

Debugging Apex Code

Apex debugging uses Debug Logs and VS Code breakpoints.

Introduction to Apex Debugging

Apex debugging is a crucial skill for Salesforce developers, enabling them to identify and fix issues within their code. This tutorial will guide you through the fundamental tools and techniques used in Apex debugging, focusing on Debug Logs and breakpoints in Visual Studio Code.

Using Debug Logs

Debug Logs are an essential tool for tracking the flow of a program and understanding what happens at each step during execution. They provide detailed information about the execution of Apex code, system processes, and database interactions. To access Debug Logs in Salesforce, follow these steps:

Navigate to Setup in Salesforce.
Enter Debug Logs in the Quick Find box.
Select Debug Logs under Monitoring.
Click New to create a new log, and specify the user and time period for logging.

Once the Debug Log is set up, you can analyze it to find errors or performance issues. It logs information like executed operations, encountered exceptions, and even governor limits usage.

Setting Up Breakpoints in VS Code

Breakpoints allow you to pause the execution of your code at a specific line, enabling you to inspect variables, analyze call stacks, and evaluate expressions in real-time. To set up breakpoints in VS Code:

Install Salesforce extensions for VS Code if you haven't already.
Open your Apex class in the editor.
Click on the gutter next to the line number where you want to add a breakpoint.
Run the debugger by selecting Debug from the activity bar and then clicking on Start Debugging.

With the debugger running, your code will pause execution at each breakpoint, allowing you to inspect the current state and step through your code line by line.

Analyzing Debug Logs and Breakpoints

After setting up Debug Logs and breakpoints, you can analyze the data collected to understand your program's behavior. Look for patterns in log entries, such as repeated errors or specific conditions that trigger issues. Use breakpoints to examine variables' values and the application flow in detail.

Conclusion

Mastering Apex debugging significantly enhances your ability to develop robust Salesforce applications. By utilizing Debug Logs and VS Code breakpoints, you can efficiently identify and resolve issues within your code. Practice these techniques regularly to become proficient in Apex debugging.

Basics

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