- name
- systematic-debugging
- description
- Debug through a structured root-cause process instead of guesswork. Use when commands fail, tools behave unexpectedly, automations break, integrations only partially work, or the real cause is unclear.
Systematic Debugging
Debug by narrowing the problem, testing hypotheses, and proving root cause.
Core Rule
Do not stack random fixes. Understand the failure shape first, then test one hypothesis at a time.
Workflow
- Define the symptom clearly.
- Reproduce it with the smallest possible test.
- Separate likely layers:
- input/data - local script or command - dependency/runtime - network/external service - site-specific anti-bot or auth
- Test one layer at a time.
- Confirm root cause with a minimal proof.
- Apply the smallest fix.
- Re-test the original symptom.
Useful Patterns
Compare working vs failing path
If one URL, command, or mode works and another fails, compare them directly.
Reduce scope
Use:
- smaller inputs
- a simpler command
- a known-good site/page
- a dry-run mode
- help/version commands
Distinguish tool failure from target failure
Examples:
- browser tool works, but website blocks automation
- API client works, but credentials are missing
- script syntax is fine, but runtime dependency is absent
Reporting Style
Explain in 3 parts:
- symptom
- confirmed cause
- fix or next blocker
Example:
- "툴 자체는 살아 있고, 쿠팡이 anti-bot으로 막는 게 원인이었어. 그래서 브리지 세션 재사용 쪽으로 우회했어."
Avoid
- trying many fixes without learning anything
- changing multiple variables at once
- declaring a root cause without proof
- saying something is broken when only one target site is blocking it
Practical Examples
Example: Site works on one page but not another
- Symptom: google.com opens, search results fail
- Likely split: tool works, target flow is blocked or challenged
Example: Skill installed but command missing
- Symptom: folder exists, CLI not found
- Likely split: skill docs installed, runtime dependency missing
Example: API tool returns auth error
- Symptom: command exists, request fails
- Likely split: client is healthy, credentials/config are missing or invalid