In this GitHub video, the team shares practical debugging workflows using GitHub Copilot chat. The author, GitHub, presents ways developers can leverage Copilot to resolve code issues more quickly and efficiently.

Debugging Faster with GitHub Copilot Chat

Author: GitHub

Overview

Debugging code can be a time-consuming process, but GitHub Copilot chat introduces new, efficient ways to resolve issues directly within your development environment.

Based on the segment from the “GitHub Copilot deep dive” video (watch here), this guide outlines how developers can use Copilot chat for faster, smarter debugging.

Key Features Demonstrated

  • Paste Error Messages: Developers can paste error messages directly into Copilot chat, receiving guidance or suggested fixes tailored to the issue.
  • Bug Screenshot Analysis: By dragging and dropping screenshots showing bugs or problematic code, Copilot chat interprets visual context to assist with troubleshooting.
  • Context from External Files: You can supply files that aren’t part of your project—such as relevant configuration files or external data—to give Copilot greater context when generating debugging solutions.

Practical Debugging Workflow

  1. Encounter an Error: When facing an error message during development, copy and paste it into the Copilot chat window.
  2. Add Visual Context: If the issue is visible in your application’s UI or an output window, take a screenshot and drag it into the chat for further clarification.
  3. Provide Extra Context: If the error may be related to settings or data external to the main project, submit the relevant files through the chat interface.
  4. Receive Tailored Help: Copilot chat processes all provided information, offering actionable suggestions or code corrections based on the detailed context submitted.

Staying Connected with GitHub

To keep up with the latest features and improvements from GitHub:

About GitHub

GitHub is the platform where over 100 million developers come together to create, share, and ship software projects. It enables collaboration and innovation, making it possible for anyone, anywhere, to build software and solve problems together. Learn more at GitHub.com.

For a full demonstration of Copilot’s debugging capabilities, visit the GitHub Copilot deep dive.