Systematic Debugging with Fagan Inspection

This skill applies a modified Fagan Inspection methodology for systematic problem resolution when facing complex problems or stubborn bugs that have resisted multiple fix attempts.

Process Overview

Follow these four phases sequentially. Do not skip phases or attempt fixes before completing the inspection.

Phase 1: Initial Overview

Establish a clear understanding of the problem before analysis:

• Explain the problem in plain language without technical jargon
• State expected behaviour - what should happen
• State actual behaviour - what is happening instead
• Document symptoms - error messages, logs, observable failures
• Context - when does it occur, how often, under what conditions

Output: A clear problem statement that anyone could understand.