How can you debug computational geometry libraries and frameworks effectively?

1 Use visualization tools

One of the most helpful ways to debug computational geometry code is to use visualization tools that can display the input, output, and intermediate steps of the algorithm. Visualization can help you spot errors, anomalies, or inconsistencies in the geometric objects and operations. For example, you can use tools like GeoGebra, CGAL, or Matplotlib to draw points, lines, polygons, or meshes in 2D or 3D. You can also use tools like GDB, Valgrind, or Visual Studio to inspect the memory and variables of the code. Visualization tools can help you verify the correctness and efficiency of the algorithm, as well as identify potential sources of bugs.

2 Use test cases and assertions

Another useful way to debug computational geometry code is to use test cases and assertions that can check the expected behavior and output of the algorithm. Test cases are examples of input and output that can cover different scenarios, such as normal, boundary, or extreme cases. Assertions are statements that can verify certain conditions or invariants that must hold true during the execution of the algorithm. For example, you can use test cases and assertions to check if the algorithm preserves the orientation, area, or topology of the input, or if it produces valid, consistent, or optimal output. Test cases and assertions can help you detect errors, failures, or violations in the algorithm, as well as measure its performance and accuracy.

3 Use debugging strategies and techniques

A third helpful way to debug computational geometry code is to use debugging strategies and techniques that can help you locate and fix the bugs in the algorithm. Debugging strategies are methods that can guide you through the process of finding and solving the problem, such as divide and conquer, binary search, or hypothesis testing. Debugging techniques are actions that can help you manipulate or modify the code, such as breakpoints, tracing, logging, or commenting. For example, you can use debugging strategies and techniques to isolate the faulty part of the code, examine the input and output values, compare the actual and expected results, or test different solutions. Debugging strategies and techniques can help you understand and correct the logic, syntax, or semantic errors in the algorithm.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?