Title: Pass data between steps Description: Insert variables, inspect inputs and outputs, and transform workflow data. Canonical: https://openpo.st/docs/workflows/variables Source: [https://openpo.st/docs/workflows/variables](https://openpo.st/docs/workflows/variables) # Pass data between steps Use variables to pass a trigger's data or an earlier step's result into another step. ## Insert a value 1. Open the step and select a field. 2. Choose **Insert variable**, type `{{` for suggestions, or drag a field from the input panel. 3. Choose the source field. Use **Edit variable syntax** when you need to inspect its path. Variables appear as chips. Unavailable fields show an error and **Needs attention** on the node. A single variable in a numeric, JSON, or condition field keeps its original type. Text fields and variables mixed with text convert values to text. ## Inspect and transform data The step inspector shows input, configuration, and output. Choose structure, table, or JSON view; table view shows collections as rows. Phones use tabs for these panels. Data steps can edit fields, parse JSON, filter/sort/limit lists, merge values, format dates, or add UTM parameters. **Read RSS feed** fetches current feed items. **JavaScript** receives `input` and returns a JSON value. It has a two-second deadline and a 32 MiB heap, with no network, file, or environment access. Use **HTTP request** for API calls. See [the API-to-post example](https://openpo.st/docs/workflows/examples/api-to-post) for a short transformation.