Debugging Stored Procedures in Visual Studio 2019

Debugging stored procedures is a crucial task for database developers as it helps in discovering and rectifying issues in the code. Visual Studio 2019 offers a cutting-edge integrated development environment for building and debugging SQL Server solutions that include stored procedures, functions, and triggers.

Step 1: Creating a New Stored Procedure

The first step involves creating a new stored procedure in the SQL Server object explorer. To achieve this, right-click on the database, select “New Query,” followed by “New Stored Procedure.” Proceed to input the name for the stored procedure and add the code.

Step 2: Configuring the Debugger

The following step entails configuring the debugger by establishing breakpoints in the code. To do this, launch the stored procedure in Visual Studio 2019 and place the cursor on the line that you want to debug. Next, right-click on the margin on the left side of the code editor and select “Insert Breakpoint.”

Step 3: Debugging the Stored Procedure

Choose “Debug” and then “Attach to Process” in the top menu. In the “Attach to Process” dialogue box, select “SQL Server” for the “Transport” and choose the appropriate SQL Server instance in the “Qualifier” section. Hit the “Select” button, select “sqlservr.exe” from the list of available procedures, and click on the “Attach” button.

As soon as the debugger is attached, click the “Start Debugging,” or press the “F5” key. The stored procedure will execute, and it will pause at the breakpoint.

Step 4: Inspecting the Variable Values

While the debugger is halted at the breakpoint, scrutinize the variable values by either hovering the mouse over the variable or expanding the “Locals” window.

The “Locals” window showcases the list of variables in the current scope and their values. If a variable value is incorrect or invalid, rectify it for the next steps.

Step 5: Continuing the Debugging

After scrutinizing the variable values, continue debugging by clicking the “Continue” button or pressing “F5” key. If the code executes smoothly, the stored procedure will produce the anticipated results. If not, repeat the previous measures until you establish and rectify the errors.

Conclusion

All in all, debugging stored procedures in Visual Studio 2019 is uncomplicated and potent, availing fundamental insights into the behaviors of the code and issues. You can easily debug and enhance your stored procedures’ performance and functionality by following the outlined steps.