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Javascript: Is there a way to get Chrome to break on all errors?

javascript
debugging
devtools
error-handling
Anton ShumikhinbyAnton Shumikhin·Feb 26, 2025
TLDR

Activate Chrome's breakpoints in Developer Tools. Press F12, head over to the Sources tab, and click the octagon icon with the pause symbol in it. Tick the "Pause on exceptions" box to stop at every unhandled error. In case you want to halt at both handled and unhandled exceptions, also select "Pause on caught exceptions".

// Who doesn't love a good cliffhanger 📚? Chrome sure does, // when "Pause on exceptions" is enabled. throw new Error('Aaaaand freeze. 🥶');

Switch your pausing preferences with the "Pause" button's color indicator: blue signifies unhandled diversity in your code, and violet for all exceptions invited to the party.

Adapting to the various exceptions scenarios

Not every error requires the same attention, so Chrome enables you to toggle between error states. All you have to do is click on the "Pause" button in the Sources tab. The button will change color ⚫ to blue for uncaught party crashers only, and to purple when everyone's invited.

Emulating the Firebug experience

While Firebug's "Break on all errors" feature isn't a direct fit for Chrome, the "Pause on all exceptions" feature comes as close as a fraternal twin. If you're looking for custom handling or a function beyond DevTools, get an invitation from the plugins or extensions club - they know how to throw a party.

Testing, testing, is this thing on?

Before running an open mic night for your code, get a feel of the crowd on tools like jsFiddle. You can try out code snippets in a controlled environment, ensuring your code has the best shot at leaving the audience in awe.

Chrome DevTools is well versed in fashion. It knows how to update and change to the latest trends. Therefore, you need to keep an eye on the latest drops in error handling features. Joining the developer communities can be a great way to get help and stay ahead of trends.

Caught exceptions, the under-reported celebrities

Error handling isn't just about catching exceptions – it's reporting them too. Stay informed that the error object within catch blocks carries a goodie bag – the stack property. It shows you where the exceptions occurred in your app, making your troubleshooting experience more like detective work.

Chronicles of breakpoints

Evolution of breakpoints

Chrome DevTools' breakpoints have come a long way - from being mere pause points in JavaScript execution, to now including DOM changes and network events. This feature is equivalent to invigilating your application's stability under varying conditions.

Configuring your breakpoints

Chrome offers to tailor breakpoints to your specific debugging needs. Besides basic error breakpoints, you can set them to be triggered for specific types of errors or even conditional breakpoints that halt execution when certain conditions are met in the code.

Breakpoints and their URLs

As they say, change is the only constant and Chrome embraces it passionately. The DevTools updates have changed the URLs for setting breakpoints. So before arranging the breakpoints, do have a quick glance at the updated official DevTools documentation for the latest procedures.

Visual aids for understanding

Given the rising popularity of infographics and visuals in making complex procedures accessible, it's no surprise that incorporating screengrabs, step-by-step info, or video tutorials can massively aid in understanding Chrome's error handling options. It makes the process less taxing and acts as quick-reference material during those frustrating debugging sessions.

Pictures are worth a thousand words after all, right?