Viewing Table Variable Values During Debugging

When debugging Transact-SQL (T-SQL) code in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), it can be helpful to examine the values stored in table variables. However, the standard debugging tools do not provide a direct way to view table variable contents.

Solution: Converting Table Variables to XML

A simple solution to this problem involves converting the table variable into an XML representation. This can be achieved using the following code:

DECLARE @v XML = (SELECT * FROM <tablename> FOR XML AUTO)

Replace "" with the name of the table variable you wish to view.

By inserting this statement at the desired debugging point, you can view the table variable's contents as XML in the Locals window. Alternatively, add the @v variable to the Watches window for easy access.

Example:

To view the contents of the @Customers table variable during debugging:

DECLARE @Customers TABLE (CustomerID int, CustomerName varchar(50));

-- Insert customer data into the table variable

-- Insert the following statement at the debugging point
DECLARE @v XML = (SELECT * FROM @Customers FOR XML AUTO)

Upon execution, the @v variable will contain the XML representation of the @Customers table, allowing you to examine its data during debugging.