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[[build_scans]]
= Build Scan Basics

A Build Scan is a *representation of metadata captured* as you run your build.

image::gradle-basic-1.png[]

== About Build Scan

Gradle <<#sec:captured-information,captures your build metadata>> and sends it to the link:https://scans.gradle.com/[Build Scan Service].
The service then transforms the metadata into information you can analyze and share with others.

image::build-scan-1.png[]

The information that Build Scan collects can be an invaluable resource when troubleshooting, collaborating on, or optimizing the performance of your builds.

For example, with a Build Scan, it’s no longer necessary to copy and paste error messages or include all the details about your environment each time you want to ask a question on Stack Overflow, Slack, or the Gradle Forum.
Instead, copy the link to your latest Build Scan.

image::build-scan-2.png[]

== Enable Build Scan

To enable a Build Scan on a Gradle command, add `--scan` to the command line option:

[source,bash]
----
$ ./gradlew build --scan
----

You may be prompted to agree to the terms to use Build Scan.

Visit the link:https://scans.gradle.com/[Build Scan page] to learn more.

[[sec:captured-information]]
== Captured Information

To see what data is captured and sent in a Build Scan, refer to the link:https://docs.gradle.com/develocity/gradle-plugin/current/#captured_information)[Captured Information] section in the Gradle Develocity Plugin documentation.

Ready to build something? Start with the <<part1_gradle_init.adoc#part1_gradle_init,Beginner Tutorial>>.

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**Next Step:** <<part1_gradle_init.adoc#part1_gradle_init,Start the Tutorial>> >>
