COBOL Code Testing and Debugging Fundamentals

Writing COBOL code is only half the battle; ensuring it runs flawlessly requires robust testing and systematic debugging skills. For developers working with core business systems or modern mainframe integrations, finding and fixing execution errors quickly is an essential career skill. This course guides you through the process of isolating, analyzing, and resolving issues in COBOL programs. You will gain a clear understanding of runtime errors, learn how to prevent common pitfalls, and develop a structured methodology for keeping mainframe applications stable and efficient. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational COBOL testing terminology and common runtime error classifications. - Interpret file status codes to quickly diagnose and resolve input/output issues. - Apply systematic debugging techniques to isolate logic and arithmetic errors in your code. - Analyze execution dumps and compiler listings to trace the root cause of application failures. - Practice modern error-handling patterns and structured testing workflows to write cleaner, more resilient code. The course begins with essential debugging terminology and error classifications before moving into practical tracing methods, file status analysis, and modern testing concepts. Through clear written explanations and step-by-step code walkthroughs, you will build a solid foundation in mainframe troubleshooting. This course is designed for beginning COBOL developers, software engineers transitioning to mainframe environments, and IT professionals who want to strengthen their troubleshooting skills. No prior debugging experience is required. Start reading today to build confidence in diagnosing and fixing COBOL applications.