How to view JavaScript function calls as they occur

Question

Is it possible to view JavaScript function calls in the browser's JavaScript console? I know you can view XHR, but can you view function calls?

For example, I hover my mouse over some element on a page and a div pops up. I know there was a JavaScript function that was called to show the popup so it would be nice to be able to view this call in the console so I can see what function was called.

Am I missing something or is this not possible?

Solution 1

So basically you want to view JS calls in real-time?

The Firebug extension on Firefox offers that (http://getfirebug.com/javascript).

Basically, what you want to do is find your function within your code, then set a breakpoint on it. You should then be able to step through execution on it, just like a normal debugger. It shouldn't be hard to find the JS function associated with a and a particular event (e.g. mouseover) on that - is this page in question using straight JS or a framework? And if so, which one?

Google Chrome's built-in developer tools offer a smaller subset - depending on what you want, the Profile tab on it might be useful?

What exactly do you need to trace this JS function for? We might be able to recommend a better tool for you based on your particular need.

Solution 2

Check into the Firebug Profiler you can use it to see a break down of what's going on without having to manually add in console.log statements.

To use the profiler, just go to the Console tab and click the "Profile" button. Then use your app for a bit or reload the page and then click the "Profile" button again. You'll then see a detailed report that shows what functions were called and how much time each one took.

http://michaelsync.net/2007/09/10/firebug-tutorial-logging-profiling-and-commandline-part-ii

Understanding Firebug profiler output

Solution 3

Not unless you explicitly attach that information to the DOM.

You can, however, set breakpoints in the developers tools for some browsers, such as Safari, Chrome and Firebug for Firefox.