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How to print a stack trace in Node.js?

javascript
prompt-engineering
functions
error-handling
Alex KataevbyAlex KataevΒ·Nov 16, 2024
⚑TLDR

Jump into the fray with the Error().stack in Node.js:

console.log(new Error().stack);

This slice of code captures the current call stack and serves it on a neat console log platter. 🍽️

Take your function to the gym

The best functions are those with modular builds. Tone up your stack trace generation with a neatly encapsulated function:

function printStackTrace() { const stack = new Error().stack; console.log(stack); } printStackTrace();

After all, who likes doing the same workout without a routine?

Stump out exceptions

Uh-oh! Exceptions got you stumbling around? No worries, the try-catch safety net is here:

try { // Code that might trip up } catch (e) { console.error(e.stack || e); }

Wrapping up potential mess-ups in a try-catch secures you from wiping out and losing your stack trace.

Making sense from the mess

Say goodbye to log spaghetti

In Node.js, lengthy stack traces can rival an Italian cookbook for stringy output. Tidy up with a function that filters out the mess:

function getCleanStackTrace(stack) { const lines = stack.split('\n'); return lines.filter(line => shouldIncludeLine(line)).join('\n'); } function shouldIncludeLine(line) { // Your almighty sieve code - be choosy about your recipe! // Example: return !line.includes('node_modules'); } console.log(getCleanStackTrace(new Error().stack));

A minimal, readable stack trace? Now, that's some clean kitchen worthy presentation!

Be fancy, use the cutlery

When a more polished stack trace is the order of the day, it's time to bring out the silverware - aka, libraries such as trace:

npm install --save trace

And next, let trace sprinkle some magic onto your stack errors:

require('trace');

Advanced formatting, richer details - no extra coding needed. That's cooking with class!

Serving it like a pro

Stick to the menu

Why go personal when Node.js offers you a plethora of built-in tools for inspecting stack traces? Tap into the native goodness and always be aware of Node.js updates - they pack more punch in debugging and error handling.

Trash talk your errors

Remember, your logs are your secret debugging confidantes. Vent your frustrations and talk trash with your errors:

function criticalFunction() { console.log('Me vs Critical Function round 1'); // Function shenanigans... if (errorCondition) { console.error('Critical Function TKO-ed me with:', new Error().stack); } }

Big Brother is watching - your logs and stack traces will reveal all!

Host an error safety briefing

For the dreaded uncaught exceptions, think fast and response faster using domain modules or process event handlers:

process.on('uncaughtException', (err) => { console.error('Ouch, an unhandled jab:', err.stack); // Put your disaster recovery pants on here });

Handle uncaught exceptions gracefully - it could be the difference between a bruised ego and a total knockout!