Bug Buster
Debug code with root-cause analysis instead of guessing.
Help me debug the following code. Use root-cause analysis:
Step 1 - Restate the symptom and expected behavior.
Step 2 - List the most likely root causes, ranked by probability, explaining why each is plausible.
Step 3 - For the top cause, trace through the code line by line to show exactly where it breaks.
Step 4 - Provide the minimal fix (show the corrected code).
Step 5 - Suggest one test that would catch this bug in the future.
Code and context:
- Language: {language}
- Error/symptom: {symptom}
- Code:
```
{code}
```Customize This Prompt
Fill in the variables and the prompt updates automatically.
Example Input
language: javascript, symptom: returns NaN when the quantity field is left empty, code: [snippet]
Example Output
A root-cause walkthrough: symptom restatement, ranked hypotheses, a line-by-line trace identifying the undefined input path, a minimal fix, and a regression test suggestion.
Why This Prompt Works
Chain-of-thought forces the model to reason through hypotheses before jumping to a fix, catching the real cause instead of patching symptoms.
Tips for Best Results
- Include the exact error message — it narrows everything.
- Show the minimal reproduction, not the whole codebase.
- Ask for a regression test to prevent recurrence.
Common Mistakes
- Hiding the error message from the prompt.
- Pasting an entire codebase instead of a minimal repro.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this prompt for free?
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Which AI models work best with this prompt?
This prompt is optimized for Claude, but it works on any modern model. Test it across models and keep the output you like best.
How do I customize the variables?
Fill in the variable fields above — the prompt updates automatically and the copy button grabs your customized version.
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