How Can I Inspect a Function's Return Value During Debugging in Visual Studio?

Debugging Function Return Values in Visual Studio

During debugging, examining a function's return value before it exits can be invaluable, especially when the function interacts directly with UI elements, obscuring direct observation of the return value within the normal execution flow. Visual Studio offers several methods for inspecting this value, though the approach varies depending on the Visual Studio version.

Visual Studio 2013 and Later (with caveats)

Visual Studio 2013 and later versions allow viewing the return value in the Autos window or using the $ReturnValue expression in the Watch/Immediate windows. However, this only works after the function has returned. Setting a breakpoint on the function call and stepping over it (F10) is necessary.

Visual Studio 2015:

The $ReturnValue feature was unfortunately removed in Visual Studio 2015.

Visual Studio 2017 and 2022:

The $ReturnValue expression was reinstated in Visual Studio 2017 and remains functional in Visual Studio 2022. Crucially, in Visual Studio 2022, you must add the $ReturnValue expression to the Watch window before reaching the return statement within the function.

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