Backend Topic 78 - Error Handling Guidelines

Introduction

Error handling is the process of detecting, diagnosing, and resolving errors in software systems. It's crucial for maintaining system stability, preventing data loss, and providing a good user experience.

Key Guidelines

1. **Identify Errors Promptly:** Don't ignore errors – immediately investigate them.

2. **Understand the Error Message:** Read the error message carefully – it often contains vital clues.

3. **Trace the Error's Source:** Use debugging tools to understand where the error originated from.

4. **Implement Specific Recovery Actions:** Depending on the error, implement appropriate fixes or rollback procedures.

5. **Logging is Essential:** Log all relevant error information – timestamps, stack traces, affected data – for debugging and auditing.

Example Scenarios

Example: A user attempts to submit a form with an invalid email address. The system logs the error, displays a user-friendly error message, and prevents the submission.

Code Snippet (Illustrative - needs complete context in real-world scenario):

function validateEmail(email) {
    if (!email.includes('@')) {
        return "Invalid email format.";
    }
    return "";
}