How can I debug a Perl script?

Question

When I run a Perl script, how can I debug it? For example, in ksh I add the -x flag. But how I do the same in Perl?

Answer 1

I would also recommend using the Perl debugger.

However, since you asked about something like shell's -x have a look at the Devel::Trace module which does something similar.

Answer 2

The most effective debugging tool is still careful thought, coupled with judiciously placed print statements.

Brian Kernighan, "Unix for Beginners" (1979)

(And enhancing print statements with Data::Dumper)