How do I handle and display errors in my web application?

Handling and displaying errors in a web application is an essential aspect of ensuring a smooth user experience and efficient troubleshooting. Here are some steps to help you handle and display errors effectively:

1. Implement error handling middleware

One way to handle errors in your web application is to use error handling middleware. This middleware sits between the server and your application’s code and can catch any unhandled exceptions that occur during runtime. It can then display an appropriate error message to the user.

2. Use try-catch blocks

Another approach to error handling is to use try-catch blocks. Wrap the code blocks that may throw errors in try-catch statements. This way, if an error occurs, it will be caught, and you can handle it gracefully. Within the catch block, you can display an error message or perform any necessary error-specific actions.

3. Utilize error codes

Assign unique error codes to different error scenarios in your application. Error codes prove helpful in debugging and troubleshooting. They allow you to identify the specific error scenario quickly and take appropriate actions to resolve it. You can include error codes in your error messages, logs, and monitoring systems.

4. Display user-friendly error messages

While it’s important to log detailed error messages for debugging purposes, it’s equally crucial to display user-friendly error messages to your application’s users. Generic error messages such as ‘An error occurred’ can be frustrating and unhelpful to users. Instead, provide clear and concise error messages that inform users about the issue and suggest possible solutions if applicable.

5. Log errors

Logging errors is crucial for effective debugging and troubleshooting. Log the details of errors, including the error message, stack trace, timestamp, and any other relevant information. Consider using a logging library or framework to handle error logging efficiently. Logs can help you identify patterns, detect recurring errors, and track down the root cause of issues.

By following these best practices, you can handle and display errors in your web application in an efficient and user-friendly manner. Remember to continuously monitor and improve your error handling approach to minimize the impact of errors on your users.