Firebug-like debugger for Google Chrome
Activate Chrome DevTools by pressing F12 or Ctrl+Shift+I for a debugging experience that rivals Firebug. Inspect elements, spot console errors, scrutinize network requests, and access performance insights built directly into Chrome without requiring any additional downloads or extensions.
Tap into built-in JavaScript debugging and real-time CSS modification by right-clicking on any element and selecting "Inspect." Harness the full power of Chrome's built-in debugging suite without stepping out of your Chrome browsing environment.
Understanding Chrome DevTools
Breakdown of DevTools Panel
Chrome DevTools is segmented into different panels, each tailored to specific development tasks. Get familiar with the DevTools layout:
- Elements: Peek into the structure of HTML and CSS.
- Console: View logs or run JavaScript for quick debugging.
- Sources: Place breakpoints and debug JavaScript.
- Network: Track requests and inspect network activity.
- Performance: Profile and optimize page load performance.
- Memory: Debug memory issues and manage JavaScript heap size.
- Application: Examine loaded resources and interact with web storage.
- Security: Evaluate and enhance your website's security.
Shortcut Expressway
Take advantage of keyboard shortcuts and tips like:
- Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + C: Activate Inspect Element mode faster than Flash.
- Cmd/Ctrl + [ and Cmd/Ctrl + ]: Navigate through panel tabs like browsing chapters on Netflix.
- H: Make elements play hide and seek.
- Cmd/Ctrl + F: Search within the selected panel like finding Waldo.
Troubleshooting Pit Stops
Common issues and their remedies:
- CSS modifies not reflecting: Overridden styles are struck through.
- JavaScript debugging not working: Ensure scripts are loaded and no JavaScript errors are present on the Console tab.
- Page load performance: Identify resource-intensive scripts on the Network tab.
Customizing and Extending DevTools
Add a Personal Touch
Want to extend the functionality of your Chrome DevTools? Here's how:
- Themes: Change the UI to match your personal style.
- Workspaces: Link local project files to network files for slick live edits.
- Extensions: Enhance your debugging power with third-party extensions.
Workflows for Web Developers
Different developers, different needs. Chrome DevTools covers them all:
- Responsive testing: Simulate mobile devices with a seamless "device mode".
- API debugging: Unravel AJAX calls and resolve API response miseries.
- Custom scripts: Use snippets to run repetitive diagnostic tests.
Teamwork Makes it Work
Breathe collaboration into your workflow with DevTools:
- Share settings: Export and import DevTools settings across your team's machines.
- Remote debugging: Debug live content on mobile devices with port forwarding and device emulation.
Was this article helpful?