AI interactions often involve multiple steps (e.g., user prompt, tool calls, retrieval). When an error occurs, the entire chain can fail. The most efficient debugging heuristic is to analyze the sequence and stop at the very first mistake. Focusing on this "most upstream problem" addresses the root cause, as downstream failures are merely symptoms.

Building complex, multi-step AI processes directly with code generators creates a black box that is difficult to debug. Instead, prototype and validate the workflow step-by-step using a visual tool like N8N first. This isolates failure points and makes the entire system more manageable.

For stubborn bugs, use an advanced prompting technique: instruct the AI to 'spin up specialized sub-agents,' such as a QA tester and a senior engineer. This forces the model to analyze the problem from multiple perspectives, leading to a more comprehensive diagnosis and solution.

LLMs often get stuck or pursue incorrect paths on complex tasks. "Plan mode" forces Claude Code to present its step-by-step checklist for your approval before it starts editing files. This allows you to correct its logic and assumptions upfront, ensuring the final output aligns with your intent and saving time.

Despite sophisticated AI debugging tools that monitor logs and browsers, the most efficient solution is often the simplest. Highlighting an error message, copying it, and pasting it directly into an AI agent's chat window is a fast and reliable way to get a fix without over-engineering your workflow.

Prompting a different LLM model to review code generated by the first one provides a powerful, non-defensive critique. This "second opinion" can rapidly identify architectural issues, bugs, and alternative approaches without the human ego involved in traditional code reviews.

Many AI tools expose the model's reasoning before generating an answer. Reading this internal monologue is a powerful debugging technique. It reveals how the AI is interpreting your instructions, allowing you to quickly identify misunderstandings and improve the clarity of your prompts for better results.

Unlike testing simpler tools, the best way to evaluate a professional-grade AI coding agent is to apply it to your most difficult, real-world problems. Don't dumb down the task; use it on a complex bug or a massive, imperfect codebase to see its true reasoning and problem-solving capabilities.

To ensure comprehension of AI-generated code, developer Terry Lynn created a "rubber duck" rule in his AI tool. This prompts the AI to explain code sections and even create pop quizzes about specific functions. This turns the development process into an active learning tool, ensuring he deeply understands the code he's shipping.