# Shorthand Functions

Shorthand functions can be used in your Codeception tests or helpers. 

#### codecept_debug($data)

Prints information when running in debug mode. String, array, or object can be provided as argument.
  
#### codecept_output_dir()
  
Returns absolute path to output directory (`tests/_output`)
  
#### codecept_root_dir()
 
Returns absolute path to the root directory (where `codeception.yml` is located)
 
#### codecept_data_dir()
 
Returns absolute path to data directory (`tests/_data`)