A TECHNICAL SEMINAR REPORT ON

Debugging Python using PDB

Bachelor of Computer Applications

(CYBER SECURITY)

Poornima University, Jaipur

Session: 2022-2023

Submitted By: Himanshu Soni

Registration No: 2021PUSCEBCYX09688
Submitted To: Mr. Vishal Harith

Department of Computer Applications

Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering, Poornima University
IS-2027-2031, Ramchandrapura, P.O. Vidhani Vatika, Sitapura Extension,
Jaipur, Rajasthan (India) 303905.
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Candidate’s Declaration

I hereby declare that the work presented in the seminar report entitled “Debugging Python
using PDB” is submitted by Himanshu Soni (2021PUSCEBCYX09688) is in the fulfilment
of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Computer Applications (Cyber
Security), Poornima University, Jaipur. The work has been found satisfactory, authentic of
own work carried out during my degree, and approved for submission.
Date: 17-02-2023
Name: Himanshu Soni

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Acknowledgement

It is my privilege to express my sincerest regards to our class Tutor, Mr. Vishal Harith, for
his valuable inputs, able guidance, encouragement, whole-hearted co-operation, and
constructive criticism throughout from seminar topic selection to presentation.
I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to all faculty members whose direct or
indirect suggestion helped me. My sincere respect and love to my parents and all other family
members and friends for their love and encouragement throughout our careers.

Himanshu Soni
(2021PUSCEBCYX09688)

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Abstract

Python Debugging using PDB is a powerful tool for finding and fixing errors in Python code.
This report provides an overview of Python Debugging using PDB, including its features,
usage, and benefits.
This report outlines the key features and usage of Python Debugging using PDB, including its
introduction, installation, getting started, PDB commands, and usage. The report also
provides a discussion of the results and findings of using PDB, along with conclusions and
recommendations for effective debugging.
The report also provides a detailed analysis of the results and findings of using PDB in real-
world situations. It includes case studies and examples of how PDB was used to identify and
fix errors in Python code, as well as discussions of the benefits and limitations of using this
tool.

Based on these findings, the report concludes with recommendations for how developers can
effectively use Python Debugging using PDB to improve their coding workflows and produce
higher quality software. Overall, this report serves as an invaluable resource for anyone
looking to improve their Python debugging skills and gain a deeper understanding of this
powerful tool.

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Table of Contents
1
I. Candidate’s Declaration 1
II. Acknowledgement 2
III. Abstract 3
IV. Table of Contents 4
V. Introduction 5
VI. Methodology 6
VII. Results or Findings 7
VIII. Discussion or Analysis 8
IX. Usage 9
X. Conclusion 10
XI. Recommendations 11
XII. References or Bibliography 12

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Introduction

Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors or bugs in software or computer
programs. It involves identifying the cause of a problem and removing it to ensure that the
program runs smoothly and meets its requirements. Debugging tools and techniques vary
depending on the programming language, but typically include features such as breakpoints,
tracing, and interactive debugging. The goal of debugging is to improve the quality and
reliability of a program by finding and resolving errors before they cause problems for users.
It is an essential aspect of software development, and Python provides several tools for
debugging, including PDB. PDB (Python Debugger) is a built-in library that allows
developers to debug their Python code line by line. It is a crucial step in software
development that helps ensure that software runs smoothly and meets the required
specifications.
Python, being a popular programming language, provides several tools for debugging,
including PDB (Python Debugger). PDB is a built-in library that enables developers to debug
their Python code line by line, helping them identify and remove errors or bugs in their
programs. Using PDB, developers can step through their code, inspect variables, and trace the
program's execution to identify the cause of any issues. This ensures that their software runs
smoothly and meets the required specifications.

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Methodology

The methodology used in this report is to outline the key features and usage of Python
Debugging using PDB. The report will describe the different commands available in PDB
and provide a step-by-step guide on how to use them. We will describe the approach taken to
conduct this study on Python Debugging using PDB. Firstly, we conducted extensive
research on the various debugging tools available for Python programming language. We
narrowed down our focus to PDB due to its popularity, ease of use, and its comprehensive set
of debugging features.

The study follows a descriptive research design, where we aim to outline the key features and
usage of Python Debugging using PDB. To achieve this, we started by reviewing the official
documentation of PDB and other relevant resources. We then experimented with PDB by
creating a test Python script and debugging it using PDB.

Overall, this report presents a comprehensive guide to using PDB for Python debugging,
which can be useful for both beginners and experienced developers. The methodology used in
this report provides a reliable and accurate approach to understanding and using PDB for
debugging, making it a valuable resource for Python developers seeking to improve their
debugging skills.

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Results or Findings

Python Debugging using PDB provides a wide range of commands for debugging, including
breakpoints, trace-backs, inspection of variables, and more. It also provides a detailed stack
trace and allows developers to evaluate expressions while debugging. PDB commands such
as n (next), c (continue), and s (step) provide basic debugging functionality, while q (quit)
allows developers to exit the debugger. Additionally, PDB can be integrated into an
Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for a more user-friendly debugging experience.
PDB offers basic debugging functionality with commands such as n (next), c (continue), and
s (step). These commands allow developers to navigate through their code and identify areas
where issues may be occurring. Additionally, the q (quit) command allows developers to
quickly exit the debugger and return to their code.

PDB can be integrated into any IDE for a more user-friendly debugging experience. This
integration allows developers to take advantage of all the PDB commands without having to
leave their IDE. With its robust functionality and ease of use, PDB is an essential tool for any
Python developer looking to improve their debugging skills.

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Discussion or Analysis

The results and findings of using PDB highlight its effectiveness as a debugging tool.
However, PDB is a command-line tool that requires a certain level of technical knowledge to
use effectively. Developers must understand how to navigate the call stack and inspect
variables to take full advantage of PDB's debugging capabilities. Additionally, PDB is a basic
tool that may not meet the needs of more complex software development projects.
PDB allows developers to step through their code line by line, which makes it easier to find
errors and understand how code is executed. The trace-back feature provides a
comprehensive view of the error stack, making it easier to find the source of the error. In
addition, PDB allows developers to inspect variables, evaluate expressions, and view the
source code during debugging.

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Usage

When in debugging mode, developers can use PDB commands to inspect the code and debug
their script. For example, the 'p' command can be used to print the value of a variable, and 'n'
command can be used to move to the next line of code. Additionally, PDB allows developers
to set breakpoints and inspect call stacks to understand the flow of their code.
It also highlights that PDB allows developers to set breakpoints and inspect call stacks. A
breakpoint is a point in the code where the program stops executing and waits for the
developer to continue execution. By setting breakpoints, developers can examine the state of
the program and variables at specific points in time. Additionally, PDB allows developers to
inspect call stacks to understand the flow of their code. A call stack is a record of the
sequence of function calls that have been invoked in the program, and it can help developers
trace the execution of their code.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Python Debugging using PDB is a powerful tool for finding and fixing errors
in Python code. Its wide range of commands, detailed stack trace, and ability to evaluate
expressions make it a useful tool for developers. However, PDB may not meet the needs of
more complex software development projects, and developers must have a basic
understanding of how to use the tool effectively.
PDB's stack trace feature is particularly helpful in identifying the origin of errors in the code.
Developers can easily identify which function or module is causing the problem, which can
significantly reduce the time spent debugging. Moreover, PDB's ability to evaluate
expressions on the fly can help developers gain insights into the behaviour of their code,
allowing them to make more informed decisions about how to proceed.

However, it is essential to note that PDB may not always meet the needs of more complex
software development projects. For instance, it may not be ideal for projects with hundreds or
thousands of lines of code. Developers must also have a good understanding of PDB's
functionality and know how to use it effectively to benefit from its capabilities.

In summary, Python Debugging using PDB is an essential tool for every Python developer. It
can help save time and effort in finding and fixing errors in code. However, it is vital to
understand its capabilities and limitations and know how to use it effectively to achieve the
desired results.

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Recommendations

It is recommended that developers familiarize themselves with the commands and usage of
PDB, and use it effectively during software development. Regular use of PDB will help
identify and resolve errors in code, leading to more reliable software. For more complex
software development projects, it may be necessary to use more advanced debugging tools or
integrate PDB into an IDE for a more user-friendly debugging experience.
While PDB is useful for most software development projects, it is especially important for
complex projects where errors can have a major impact on the final product. In such cases,
more advanced debugging tools may also be necessary, or PDB can be integrated into an IDE
for a more user-friendly debugging experience. Overall, mastering the usage of PDB is a
must for any serious software developer who wants to ensure their code is robust, efficient,
and error-free.

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References or Bibliography

Python Debugging using PDB - https://docs.python.org/3/library/pdb.html

Python Debugger Documentation - https://docs.python.org/3/library/debug.html
Python debugging in VS Code - https://code.visualstudio.com/docs/python/debugging
Python Debugging with PDB – Real Python - https://realpython.com/python-debugging-pdb/
Debugging in Python using PDB - https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/debugging-in-python-
with-pdb/
Python Debugger – Python PDB - https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/python-debugger-python-
pdb/
Python PDB - commands, post mortem and much more (Red Eyed Coder Club) -
https://youtu.be/SdsHXwN3Ka4
Python Tutorial for Beginners 51 (Programming Knowledge) -
https://youtu.be/38n9STvQsO0

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