Debugging shell scripts

[buxtonicer1]

Hi guys,
I've recently started to learn unix shell scripting on the ksh. One of the things I'm finding difficult is debugging when the script does not run at I would like. Can you guys provide some types and advice that I can use going forward ?

Thanks in advance

 

[PHV]

In the ksh man page have a look at the set builtin (especially -x).

Hope This Helps, PH.
Want to get great answers to your Tek-Tips questions? Have a look at FAQ219-2884 or FAQ181-2886

 

[buxtonicer1]

Are you talking about using set -x to switch on tracing. Is there anything else , that seems sparse or is it that UNIX assumes expert knowledge by the user !

 

[PHV]

Are you talking about using set -x
Yes

 

[tempest92]

set -n Read commands and check them for syntax errors, but does
not execute them. (Ignored for interactive shells).

 

[Annihilannic]

What more are you looking for than set -x provides?

Personally I find the most useful debugging tools are print and/or echo. i.e. put some in the script around the part that isn't working as expected to figure out what's really going on.

Annihilannic.