---
title: What is Variable state in Settings?
description: "**Variable state** is a read-only view of the **current global variable values** at runtime. It is stored in a DB column (e.g. variable_state) and is not part of the workflow JSON (workflowData is not updated at runtime with variable values). Open it via **Settings…"
url: "https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/what-is-variable-state-in-settings/"
updated: "2026-04-06"
category: WhatsApp Business API / Workflow Builder
---

# What is Variable state in Settings?

**Variable state** is a read-only view of the **current global variable values** at runtime. It is stored in a DB column (e.g. variable_state) and is not part of the workflow JSON (workflowData is not updated at runtime with variable values). Open it via **Settings → Variable state** to inspect what the engine is using for globals without editing the journey.

### More Related Articles

- [What are the best practices for building workflows?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/what-are-the-best-practices-for-building-workflows/)
- [How do I debug a workflow that behaves unexpectedly?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/how-do-i-debug-a-workflow-that-behaves-unexpectedly/)
- [Can I use the same workflow for multiple WABAs or agents?](https://www.smsgatewaycenter.com/blog/kb/can-i-use-the-same-workflow-for-multiple-wabas-or-agents/)

Found this useful?[Add as Preferred Source on Google](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=smsgatewaycenter.com)