Debugging Best Practices in Visual Studio

Posted by JaneDoe on Sep 15, 2025 • 12 comments

When debugging .NET applications in Visual Studio, there are several techniques that can dramatically improve productivity and reduce time spent chasing bugs. Below are some of my favorite practices:

1. Use Conditional Breakpoints

Instead of pausing execution on every iteration, set a condition that must be true for the breakpoint to hit:

// Example condition
i > 100 && user.IsActive

2. Leverage Tracepoints

Tracepoints allow you to log a message without stopping execution. Right‑click a breakpoint, choose When Hit... and set a custom message.

3. Take Advantage of DataTips & Watch Windows

Hover over variables to see DataTips, or add them to the Watch window for ongoing monitoring.

4. Enable "Just My Code"

Turn on Tools → Options → Debugging → Enable Just My Code to ignore external libraries and focus on your source.

5. Use Diagnostic Tools

The Diagnostic Tools window provides real‑time memory usage, CPU consumption, and exception tracking.

6. Run Tests During Debugging

Use Test Explorer to run unit tests with the debugger attached. This isolates problematic code paths quickly.

7. Record Live Sessions

Visual Studio’s IntelliTrace can record program execution, letting you step back in time.

Feel free to add your own tips in the comments below!