How to open Launch.Json in VS Code

Effective debugging and code quality are two inseparable concepts in software development. The debugging function is controlled Visual Studio (VS) Code is primarily managed through the launch.json file. This file allows developers to configure and manage their debugging settings as per their vision.

This article will guide you through opening and managing the launch.json file for optimal debugging.

Open launch.json in Visual Studio Code

To configure debugging settings US Code To manage it, you'll need access to the launch.json file. This file plays an important role in customizing the patch.

1. Open Visual Studio Code.                                                             
2. Click on Ctrl + Shift + P To open the command panel.
3. Type “Open launch.json” In the command panel, click on Enter. This should open the file. launch.json is yours.
4. If the file does not open launch.json , check that the folder exists. “.vscode” In the root folder of your project.
5. If it doesn't exist, create a new folder named “.vscode” Inside the user folder.
6. Create a file “launch.json” New and put it in this folder.

The launch.json file will be ready to be configured after enabling it.

Launch.json structure overview

Launch.json displays the "Release" and "Configurations" sections. The "Configurations" section is an array containing various debugging options, which you will use to configure your debugging system.

Each object in the Configurations array represents a debugging scenario. These objects contain properties that define the debugging environment, such as language, program, and debugger settings.

Some common properties you'll encounter in launch.json configurations include:

• "the name" – Easy-to-read name for the configuration to identify it in the dropdown list.
• "Type" – Specifies the type of debugger (such as “node”, “python”, or “cppvsdbg”).
• "to request" – Specifies the type of request, either “launch” (to start a new instance) or “attach” (to attach the debugger to an existing process).
• program – The file path to the file you want to correct.
• “args” – An array of command line arguments to pass to the program during debugging.
• preLaunchTask – A task that must be run before starting the debugger.

Understanding the structure of the launch.json file allows you to know which options to change and which options to leave alone as you customize your debugging environment.

Configure playback settings for different languages

The steps for configuring playback settings may vary slightly depending on the language. Below are steps for several common languages.

JavaScript and TypeScript

1. 1. created launch.json file New and configure the property “type” as it is "knot" for JavaScript Or “pwa-node” for TypeScript.
   2. Set property "demand" on “launch” Or “attach”.

1. You must specify the entry point file using the property. "The program".

Python

1. install Translator Python And the appendix to VisualStudioCode.
2. Set the property “type” on “python” in file launch.json new.
3. Create a property "demand" as it is “launch” Or “attach”.
4. Locate Python file To operate using the feature "The program".
5. You may also need to set a property. “pythonPath” On the Python interpreter path if it is not in the default location.

C# and .NET Core

1. Install the extension VS # for Visual Studio Code.
2. in file launch.json New, set property “type” on “coreclr” for .NET Core Or “clr” for .NET Framework.
3. Create a property "demand" as it is “launch” Or “attach”.
4. Specify the entry point file using the property "The program".
5. Set property “cwd” To the current project working directory if necessary.

Java

1. install Java Extension Pack.
2. Create a file launch.json New, set the property “type” on “java”.
3. Create a property "demand" as it is “launch” Or “attach”.
4. Specify the main category using the property “mainClass”.
5. Set property Project name On the name of your Java project.
6. Configure a property “classpath” To include the Java libraries that you will use during Java development.

Correction composition recipes

The following section covers several debugging configuration recipes.

Attach the corrector to an ongoing process.

To attach a debugger to a running process:

• Set property "demand" on “attach”.
• Select a process ID or filter to find the process you want to debug.

Remote application debugging

To debug applications remotely:

• Use type "far".
• Provide the host address, port, and possibly authentication information to establish a connection.

Unit tests and test suites

When correcting unit tests and test suites:

• Use a configuration that includes a testing framework and settings for debugging unit tests and test suites.
• Specify the test suite or individual test files in the property. The program Or “args” To target specific tests.

Passing environment variables

can feature “env” In launch.json, pass environment variables to your application while debugging. This property is an object containing key-value pairs for the environment variables you want to set.

Advanced correction

Let's explore some advanced debugging techniques for users who want to squeeze more power out of their debug files.

Cut-off points and conditional registration points

Breakpoints and conditional logging improve debugging by pausing or logging messages only under certain conditions. To use them:

• Right-click the line number where you want to set a breakpoint or record point.
• Locate Add a conditional comma Or Add a registration point.
• Enter the condition or message to trigger the action.

Source maps

Source maps enable you to debug compiled or minified code.

• Set the property “sourceMap” on "True" In your launch.json configuration to use source maps.
• Ensure your build process generates source maps and transformed code.

Merge external debuggers

You can integrate external debugging tools and utilities, such as gdb or lldb, into VS Code if you wish.

• Install the debugger extension of your choice.
• Configure the debugger settings in the launch.json file.

Debugging multi-threaded applications

When debugging multi-threaded applications, you can control the execution of individual threads.

• Use offer Message chains In the debug sidebar to manage message threads during a debug session.
• You can pause, resume, or cycle through code execution for each thread individually.

Multi-target correction

Compound launch configurations allow multiple targets to be debugged simultaneously. If you want to take advantage of this feature, add an array. Vehicles With configuration names to compile them together. Run them by selecting the combined configuration name from the Debug drop-down menu.

Create multiple launch configurations that target different services, functions, or endpoints to debug microservices and serverless applications. Use composite launch configurations to launch these targets together.

For multi-root workspaces, create separate launch.json files for each folder. Configure launch settings for each root folder separately to debug projects separately or simultaneously using vehicles.

Troubleshooting common Launch.json issues

Sometimes, debugging is prone to its own set of bugs. Let's take a look at some common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Schema validation errors

Schema validation errors occur when the launch.json file contains invalid properties or values. To fix schema errors:

• Review error messages from the Troubleshooting panel.
• Update the launch.json file according to the information in the error message.

Correct mistakes

Incorrect operating settings can cause debugging failure.

• Check your boot configurations for incorrect file paths.
• Check the debugger for missing or incorrect request types.
• Update settings as needed.

Diagnose operating configuration problems

To diagnose launch configuration issues:

• Enable diagnostic logging by setting the property "Tracking" on "lengthy".
• Review the logs generated in the Debug Console to identify and fix any issues.

Tips on launch.json

Use launch.json optimally by following these tips:

• Use meaningful names for your launch configurations to make them easy to identify. This practice helps you quickly find the appropriate configuration when working with multiple debugging scenarios.
• Share launch configurations with your team by including the launch.json file in your project's version control system. Every team member has access to the same debugging configurations and settings.
• Version control systems like Git can track changes to your launch.json file. You can use version control to revert to previous configurations and collaborate with other team members by sharing recommended settings with them.
• Install plugins that support languages, debugging tools, or tools that fit your project requirements. Configure the launch.json file to use these extensions and their features during debugging sessions.

Start correcting

By leveraging the power of launch.json, you can fine-tune the debugging experience to better suit your coding style. This will improve the quality and performance of your code.

How often should you configure your playback settings? Do you have any configuration tips? Please share your experiences in the comments section below.