vscode-extension-debugger

What problem does it solve?

This skill provides a systematic approach to debugging and fixing complex issues in VS Code extensions, such as memory leaks, race conditions, and WebView communication failures. It streamlines the debugging process, helping developers quickly identify root causes and implement robust fixes, saving significant time and reducing frustration.

Core Features & Use Cases

• Systematic Debugging Workflow: Guides through bug triage, root cause analysis, fix implementation, and verification.
• Common Bug Patterns: Identifies and provides solutions for frequent issues like dispose handler problems, race conditions, and unhandled async errors.
• Debugging Tools & Strategies: Leverages VS Code's built-in tools (Extension Host, DevTools) and logging best practices for effective investigation.
• Use Case: Investigate a reported memory leak in a VS Code extension by using heap snapshot analysis, identifying unreleased event listeners, and implementing a DisposableStore pattern for proper resource management.

Quick Start

Use the vscode-extension-debugger skill to outline a debugging strategy for an extension that is experiencing unhandled promise rejections during activation.