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How to Debug Stored Procedures Like a Pro (Without Pulling Your Hair Out)

Nida Sahar

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Step 1: Catch the Error (Without Losing Your Cool)#

Oracle includes built-in features for error detection. Use RAISE NOTICE to print error messages.

EXCEPTION
WHEN OTHERS THEN
RAISE NOTICE 'Error in procedure %: %', SQLERRM;
RETURN 'F'; -- Failure indicator

This prints errors directly to TOAD's Output window.

Step 2: Test with Real Data (Not Just Theoretical Inputs)#

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Use actual data, including edge cases like invalid IDs or NULL values, to properly debug your stored procedure.

Step 3: Get Interactive with TOAD's Debugger#

TOAD provides a powerful interactive debugger:

  • Open SQL Editor: Load your stored procedure.
  • Set Breakpoints: Click on line numbers where issues might exist.
  • Start Debugging: Right-click the procedure name and select Debug.
  • Watch Variables: Monitor values in real time in the Watch window.

Step 4: Check Execution Plan#

For performance issues, use TOAD's Explain Plan feature:

EXPLAIN PLAN FOR
SELECT * FROM users WHERE status = 'Active';
SELECT * FROM TABLE(DBMS_XPLAN.DISPLAY);

This helps identify bottlenecks and optimize queries.

Step 5: Logs, Logs, and More Logs#

Ensure important details are logged for future debugging:

DBMS_OUTPUT.PUT_LINE('Procedure started for user: ' || user_id);

Step 6: Have a Code Review (or Just Ask Google)#

If stuck, seek help from Google, Stack Overflow, or a colleague for fresh perspectives.

TL;DR: Debugging Like a Boss#

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  • Use RAISE NOTICE to print errors.
  • Test with real data.
  • Step through the code using TOAD Debugger.
  • Analyze the execution plan for slow queries.
  • Log errors for detailed tracking.
  • Google it (really, it works!).

Debugging stored procedures may not be fun, but with these tips, you'll solve issues faster and with less frustration.

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