A Guide to Rubber Ducky Debugging: What is it & how to do it

Author:

Debugging is an essential part of software development, but it can often be a frustrating and time-consuming process. Rubber Ducky Debugging is a technique that can help developers identify and resolve bugs more efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explain what Rubber Ducky Debugging is, how it works, and how you can use it to improve your debugging process.

What is Rubber Ducky Debugging? 

Rubber Ducky Debugging is a technique that involves explaining your code to a rubber duck or any inanimate object, essentially talking to yourself to identify potential problems in the code. The idea is that by explaining your code line by line, you can identify mistakes or areas that may need improvement. The rubber duck or inanimate object acts as a sounding board and allows you to verbalise your thoughts and ideas.

The technique was first popularised by Andrew Hunt and David Thomas in their book “The Pragmatic Programmer.” They suggest that by explaining your code to a rubber duck, you can simplify the debugging process and improve your understanding of the code.

Benefits of Rubber Ducky Debugging 

The benefits of Rubber Ducky Debugging are numerous. Firstly, it allows you to identify potential problems in your code more efficiently. By talking through your code line by line, you may notice errors or gaps in logic that you may have otherwise missed. It can also help you to understand the code better, as you are forced to explain it in simple terms.

Another benefit is that Rubber Ducky Debugging can help to improve communication within a team. If multiple developers are working on a project, they can use the technique to discuss their code and identify potential issues. By talking through the code, they can better understand each other’s thought processes and identify areas where they can work together more effectively.

Finally, Rubber Ducky Debugging can help to reduce stress and frustration when debugging. Debugging can be a difficult and time-consuming process, and it’s easy to get frustrated when you can’t identify the problem. By talking through your code with a rubber duck or inanimate object, you can take a step back from the problem and approach it in a more relaxed manner.

Next course: Monday, the 5th of June

Free coding course

Learn the basics of HTML, CSS & JavaScript to discover if coding is the career path for you.

How to do Rubber Ducky Debugging 

Now that we understand what Rubber Ducky Debugging is and its benefits let’s take a look at how to do it.

Step 1: Choose your “Rubber Duck” 

The first step is to choose your “Rubber Duck” or inanimate object. This could be a physical rubber duck, a stuffed animal, a figurine, or anything that you feel comfortable talking to. The important thing is that it is an object that you can explain your code to.

Step 2: Explain your code 

Once you have your “Rubber Duck,” it’s time to start explaining your code. Start from the beginning and go through each line, explaining what it does and why it is there. Don’t assume that the duck knows anything about programming – explain everything in simple terms.

As you explain your code, pay attention to any areas that you find confusing or difficult to explain. These may be areas that require further investigation or that need to be simplified.

Step 3: Identify potential issues 

As you explain your code, pay attention to any potential issues or errors that you may identify. These could be logic errors, syntax errors, or any other issues that you notice. Write these down so that you can address them later.

Step 4: Refine your code 

Once you have identified potential issues, it’s time to refine your code. Start by addressing the issues that you identified in step 3. This may involve rewriting parts of your code or making small tweaks to improve its functionality.

Step 5: Repeat the process 

Repeat the process of explaining your code to your Rubber Duck.

In conclusion, Rubber Ducky Debugging is a highly effective technique for identifying and solving software bugs. By explaining the code line by line to an inanimate object or a colleague, programmers can identify mistakes they might have otherwise overlooked. The technique also encourages clear and concise thinking, which can lead to better coding practices and improved software development processes.

Free Coding Challenge

There has never been a more opportunistic time to learn to code or change careers to software development. If you’d like to see if you might be a potential coder, register for our free 5 Day Coding Challenge through the form below. With this challenge, you will learn the basics of HTML, CSS & JavaScript. After just one hour a day over five days, you will build your first-ever webpage. You will also see if you have an aptitude for coding. Register now and start your learning journey!

What is an AI Developer & How to Become One?

Right now, the world is witnessing an artificial intelligence technological revolution, and AI Developers are at the forefront. AI developers are those who design, develop, and deploy AI-powered solutions. They are shaping the technological future by creating intelligent systems and applications. We look into the world of AI developers, exploring their roles, skills, and the […]

Systems Analyst: A Guide 

A system analyst looks after a company’s computer systems and network and ensures they meet its goals. They ensure that the infrastructure, computers and other systems work efficiently.  Who do you think takes care of all the systems in a company and plans everything out for a firm to meet its needs? Who do you […]

What Does a .NET Developer Do & How to Become One?

.NET developers are essential in the realm of software development. They are in charge of planning, creating, testing, and managing software applications built with the Microsoft .NET framework. As a result, they are in high demand and can command substantial wages in the tech business. In this blog, we will look at what a .NET developer […]