How can debugging tools like printf be utilized to troubleshoot PHP scripts that are causing CGI timeouts?

When PHP scripts cause CGI timeouts, it can be challenging to pinpoint the exact issue without proper debugging tools. One way to troubleshoot this problem is by using print statements (printf) strategically placed within the script to track its progress and identify any potential bottlenecks or errors.

<?php
// Place print statements strategically within the script to track progress
print "Starting script..."; 

// Code that may be causing timeouts
for ($i = 0; $i < 1000000; $i++) {
    // Some time-consuming operation
}

print "Operation completed successfully."; 
?>