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JavaScript Variables and Data Types

⏱ 2 min read Updated: 20 Aug 2026
  • A variable is a named container used to store a value in JavaScript
  • Variables are created using var, let, or const
  • JavaScript is loosely typed, so a variable's type is set automatically
  • Every value in JavaScript belongs to a data type, such as string or number
  • Data types are grouped into primitive types and non-primitive (reference) types
  • Choosing the right keyword and type keeps code predictable and bug-free

What Are Variables in JavaScript?

A variable in JavaScript works like a labeled box where you keep a piece of information so you can use it again later in your code. Instead of typing the same value over and over, you store it once inside a variable and simply call its name whenever you need it.

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Important: A variable name must start with a letter, underscore, or dollar sign, and it cannot be a reserved word like let or function.

Declaring a Variable Example


<script>
let name = "Shivam";
console.log("Hello " + name);
</script>
Hello Shivam

Why Learn Variables and Data Types?

Foundation

Every script, function, and web application begins with storing and organizing data.

Cleaner Code

Reusable variables cut down repetition and reduce mistakes.

Faster Debugging

Knowing the exact type of a value helps you spot errors early.

Works Everywhere

The same rules apply in the browser and in Node.js.

JavaScript Data Types

JavaScript data types fall into two broad groups: primitive types and non-primitive (reference) types.

  • String – text wrapped in quotes, such as "Hello"
  • Number – whole numbers and decimals, such as 25 or 3.14
  • Boolean – either true or false
  • Undefined – a variable declared but not yet given a value
  • Null – an intentional empty value
  • Object – a group of related key-value pairs
  • Array – an ordered list of values

Data Type Example


<script>
let age = 25;
let city = "Delhi";
let isStudent = true;
console.log(typeof age, typeof city, typeof isStudent);
</script>
number string boolean

What You Will Learn

Basics

How to declare, name, and initialize variables correctly.

Data Types

Strings, numbers, booleans, and the other types JavaScript supports.

Scope

Where a variable can and cannot be accessed.

var / let / const

The real, practical difference between all three.