Debugging in VSCode

[Sundog]

I have a simple AHK v2 script that controls another application via key presses. Example:

Code: Select all

Send "A"
Send "{Tab}{Tab}"
Send " "
Send "B"

I have VSCode installed and the debugger seems to be working, but when I add a breakpoint, it focuses my script in VSCode and applies the command to that script (IE it adds the letter A to line one of the script, 2 tabs to line 2 of the script, etc.). Is there a way to keep the application I want to control (eg a blank notepad) in focus while allowing me to step through the code?


[Mod edit: Moved from 'Ask for Help (v2)' since question is editor-related.]

[boiler]

This is why I don’t use a debugger for a lot of my AHK coding because it often interacts with other windows. There are other ways to leave a popcorn trail of what is getting executed and when, such as inserting ToolTip, MsgBox (focus usually returns to the window that had it when it is dismissed or times out), and SoundBeep calls into key points of your code.

[Sundog]

Thanks! I've done a lot with Tooltips and Message boxes, but I was hoping for a more streamlined way. I will play around with your other suggestions.

[thqby]

You can also use OutputDebug or debugger instructions.

Code: Select all

var := 'msg'
;@Debug-Output => {var}

[jsong55]

@thqby

Any native AHK capability can do this?

How to Console.WriteLine to the VSCode console?

Got ideas?

[thqby]

Code: Select all

OutputDebug(str '`n')
FileAppend(str '`n', '*')

[jsong55]

Without going into debug?

[thqby]

Using OutputDebug in debugging.
Output to stdout FileAppend(str '`n', '*') at any time.

[wilkster]

I use https://github.com/CobaltFusion/DebugViewPP to capture OutputDebug messages.

[jsong55]

@thqby THANKS! awesome as usual it worked.