# B. Reporting Bugs

Python is a mature programming language which has established a reputation for stability. In order to maintain this reputation, the developers would like to know of any deficiencies you find in Python or its documentation.

Before submitting a report, you will be required to log into SourceForge; this will make it possible for the developers to contact you for additional information if needed. It is not possible to submit a bug report anonymously.

All bug reports should be submitted via the Python Bug Tracker on SourceForge (http://sourceforge.net/bugs/?group_id=5470). The bug tracker offers a Web form which allows pertinent information to be entered and submitted to the developers.

The first step in filing a report is to determine whether the problem has already been reported. The advantage in doing so, aside from saving the developers time, is that you learn what has been done to fix it; it may be that the problem has already been fixed for the next release, or additional information is needed (in which case you are welcome to provide it if you can!). To do this, search the bug database using the search box on the left side of the page.

If the problem you're reporting is not already in the bug tracker, go back to the Python Bug Tracker (http://sourceforge.net/bugs/?group_id=5470). Select the ``Submit a Bug'' link at the top of the page to open the bug reporting form.

The submission form has a number of fields. The only fields that are required are the ``Summary'' and ``Details'' fields. For the summary, enter a very short description of the problem; less than ten words is good. In the Details field, describe the problem in detail, including what you expected to happen and what did happen. Be sure to include the version of Python you used, whether any extension modules were involved, and what hardware and software platform you were using (including version information as appropriate).

The only other field that you may want to set is the ``Category'' field, which allows you to place the bug report into a broad category (such as ``Documentation'' or ``Library'').

Each bug report will be assigned to a developer who will determine what needs to be done to correct the problem. You will receive an update each time action is taken on the bug.

See Also:

How to Report Bugs Effectively
  Article which goes into some detail about how to create a useful bug report. This describes what kind of information is useful and why it is useful.

Bug Writing Guidelines
  Information about writing a good bug report. Some of this is specific to the Mozilla project, but describes general good practices.