How to test data layer variables in Google Tag Manager?

Question

In Google Tag Manager, I have some data layer variables set up. How can I test that the data is coming in through these variables as I expect? So, I want to verify that the data

Answer 1

There is a Chrome extension called Google Tag Assistant that allows you to check if tags are getting fired as well as inspecting data coming through the dataLayer.

I had already been using this extension, but did not see my custom data layer variables. However, if you drill down through the tags, in Google Tag Assistant, you can see this other information (custom variables, etc). Note that, you need to ensure the tag is getting fired first.

Answer 2

The console is your friend. What I would do is type dataLayer into the console after dataLayer.push, then click on the last object in the array and you'll see your values.

For instance, I put the dataLayer.push on an onclick event and ran dataLayer and was able to see this come through. Granted they are static values, but you get the idea.

UPDATE:

Google Tag Manager has updated their debugger, allowing you to see both Names or Values being passed into GTM.