LLDB is a next-generation, high-performance debugger that is part of the LLVM project. It provides a powerful command-line interface for debugging programs written in C, C++, Objective-C, and Swift. LLDB allows developers to set breakpoints, examine variables, step through code execution, and analyze program behavior to identify and fix bugs efficiently.
LLDB offers four main debugging features. First, breakpoints allow you to pause program execution at specific lines or functions. Second, variable inspection lets you examine the current values of variables and memory contents. Third, stack traces show the call hierarchy when your program stops. Finally, step control enables you to execute code line by line, stepping into functions or over them as needed.
Here are the essential LLDB commands every developer should know. Use 'breakpoint set' to create breakpoints at functions or lines. The 'run' command starts your program execution. 'next' steps over function calls while 'step' steps into them. Use 'print' to examine variable values during debugging. 'continue' resumes execution after hitting a breakpoint, and 'quit' exits the debugger session.
The LLDB debugging workflow follows six key steps. First, compile your program with the -g flag to include debug symbols. Second, start LLDB and load your executable. Third, set breakpoints at critical locations in your code. Fourth, run the program which will pause at your breakpoints. Fifth, inspect variables and step through code to understand the program flow. Finally, fix any issues found and repeat the process until all bugs are resolved.