We don't usually think of Git as a debugging tool. Surprisingly, Git shines not just as a version control system, but also as a potent debugging ally when dealing with the tricky matter of regressions.
The Essence of Debugging with Git
Before we tap into the advanced aspects of git bisect
, it's essential to understand its foundational premise. Git is known for tracking changes and managing code history, but the git bisect
tool is a hidden gem for regression detection. Regressions are distinct from generic bugs. They signify a backward step in functionality—where something that once worked flawlessly now fails. Pinpointing the exact change causing a regression can be akin to finding a needle in a haystack, particularly in extensive codebases with long commit histories.