Rubber Duck Debugging
An Effective Problem-Solving Technique
Feb 8, 2023 • 2 minute read
Have you ever heard of the term "rubber duck debugging"? It's a quirky name for a simple but powerful technique used to solve software problems. The concept is simple: by explaining your code line by line to a rubber duck (or in my case, a bobblehead dog), you can often identify and resolve errors.
The idea behind the technique is that by speaking through your code and the thought process behind it, you can identify any gaps in your understanding, assumptions you may have made, or simply any syntax errors that you might have missed.
One of the key benefits of rubber duck debugging is that it can help you develop a MUCH better understanding of your code. By explaining the code to someone else (even if that someone else is a rubber duck), you are forced to think about it in a more holistic and organized way. This leads to a deeper understanding of the code and, in turn, makes it easier for you to find and fix problems.
Another advantage of is that it can be done anywhere and at any time! All you need is a rubber duck and a willingness to talk out loud. This makes it an accessible and convenient way to debug problems, even when you're working on your own or outside of normal business hours. Just not in public, because you can look a little crazy.
It's important to explain your code line by line, rather than just going through the code in your head. This will help you to be more thorough and to identify any potential problems.
Be patient with the process. It may take some time to work through the code and identify any issues, but the results can be well worth the effort.
Remember that rubber duck debugging is just one of many problem-solving techniques. While it can be effective, it may not always be the best solution, and it's important to use it in conjunction with other techniques and approaches.
By speaking through your code, you can identify any gaps in your understanding, assumptions you may have made, or syntax errors that you might have missed. Whether you're a seasoned programmer or just starting out, rubber duck debugging can be a valuable tool in your problem-solving toolkit.
