Question 1

How do I use icecream with Python's logging module?

Accepted Answer

You can use `ic.format()` to capture output as a string and pass it to a logger, but the README notes this is clunky and suggests checking issue #146 for potential improvements. For example, `logging.debug(ic.format(foo))`.

Question 2

IceCream vs print(): which is better for debugging?

Accepted Answer

IceCream is better for saving time and reducing errors, as it auto-prints expressions and values with formatting. However, for trivial, one-off prints in dependency-free environments, plain `print()` might be simpler.

Question 3

How to disable icecream output in production?

Accepted Answer

Use `ic.disable()` to silence output and `ic.enable()` to turn it back on. The function still returns arguments when disabled, so existing code won't break, but you need to manually manage this state.

Question 4

Does icecream work with async code or multithreading?

Accepted Answer

The README doesn't specifically address async, but since `ic()` is a regular function, it should work, though output might interleave in concurrent contexts. Configuration like output redirection could help manage this.

Question 5

How to customize the icecream output prefix?

Accepted Answer

Use `ic.configureOutput(prefix='custom -> ')` for a static prefix or pass a function for dynamic prefixes, like a timestamp. This is detailed in the README with examples of both string and function-based prefixes.

Question 6

IceCream or pdb: which debugging tool should I choose?

Accepted Answer

IceCream is ideal for quick, non-intrusive print debugging with automatic insights, while pdb is better for interactive, step-by-step debugging with breakpoints. Use icecream for rapid inspection and pdb for deep analysis.

icecream

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