Coding⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-04

How to Fix: Go checking for the type of a custom Error

Error handling in Go custom error type

Quick Answer: In Go, create a custom error type by defining a struct with an Error method. Use this type in your functions to throw errors and handle them using the Err function or the ? operator.

When working with custom error types in Go, it's essential to ensure that your code is properly handling and displaying errors. In this guide, we'll walk through a step-by-step process to troubleshoot common issues related to custom error types.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the problem with your custom error type.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary issue with custom error types is often due to incorrect usage of the Error method. In your code, make sure that you're calling the Error method on the error object correctly.
  • Another common cause is not properly initializing the error object before using it.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Check for correct usage of the Error method

  1. Step 1: Verify that you're calling the Error method on the error object like this: e.Error() instead of just e.msg.
  2. Step 2: Make sure that you're not trying to access any fields directly from the error object; use the Error method as intended.

Check for proper initialization of the error object

  1. Step 1: Ensure that you're initializing the error object correctly, like this: e := ModelMissingError{msg: 'no model found for id'}.
  2. Step 2: Double-check that you're not accidentally reusing an existing variable or type.

💡 Conclusion

To fix the issue with your custom error type, make sure to check for correct usage of the Error method and proper initialization of the error object. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the problem and use your custom error type effectively in your Go code.

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