Swift Coding Test Course, Why is Debugging Important?

In modern software development, debugging is an essential process. Especially in algorithm tests for employment, it is important not only to solve problems but also to verify the accuracy and efficiency of the code. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to solve algorithm problems using the Swift language and the importance of debugging.

Problem Definition

Problem-Solving Process

Step 1: Understand the Problem

To understand the problem, it is essential to clarify the requirements first. Here, we need to take two integers as input and return their sum. This is a very simple operation, but in coding tests, there may be situations that are not as straightforward as they seem.

Step 2: Design the Algorithm

To solve the problem, we can approach it with a simple set of steps. We will take two integers as input, add them together, and output the result. To do this, we will design the following algorithm:

1. Take the two integers A and B as input.
2. Store the sum of A and B in a variable sum.
3. Return sum.

Step 3: Implement the Code

Let’s implement the above algorithm using Swift.

func addNumbers(A: Int, B: Int) -> Int {
    let sum = A + B
    return sum
}

// Function Test
print(addNumbers(A: 5, B: 10))  // Output: 15

Step 4: Fix Errors Through Debugging

Debugging is the process of verifying that the code we wrote functions as intended. If the function behaves unexpectedly, we need to identify the cause and fix it.

Debugging Techniques

• Using Print Statements: Output the values of variables to verify intermediate processes.
• Condition Checks and Error Verification: Perform additional checks when using boundary conditions or abnormal values.
• Adding Test Cases: Create and run test cases with various input values.

For example, let’s consider the case where A or B might be negative. We can modify the function as follows:

func addNumbers(A: Int, B: Int) -> Int {
    guard A >= 0 && B >= 0 else {
        print("Error: Negative numbers are not allowed.")
        return -1
    }
    let sum = A + B
    return sum
}

// Test - Normal Operation
print(addNumbers(A: 5, B: 10))  // Output: 15

// Test - Abnormal Operation
print(addNumbers(A: -5, B: 10))  // Output: Error: Negative numbers are not allowed.

Step 5: Final Review and Submission

Finally, review the code created and add comments if necessary to enhance readability. In coding tests, it is crucial to ensure that other developers can easily understand my code, considering collaboration.

The Importance of Debugging

Debugging goes beyond merely fixing errors; it provides opportunities to ensure code quality and improve performance through optimization. The problems presented in coding tests are often similar to situations that can arise in real work, so it is important to develop the ability to solve such problems.

Conclusion

We have explored the process of solving algorithm problems using Swift and the importance of debugging. Debugging is a skill essential for successful developers, playing a significant role in enhancing code quality in algorithm tests for employment or actual projects. Furthermore, the experience gained through debugging will greatly assist in solving similar problems in the future.