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# What is the purpose of sending a test message during WhatsApp campaign creation?

## ⚡ Quick answer

Sending a test message allows you to preview the exact WhatsApp content—text, media, variables, and buttons—on a real device before the campaign reaches your audience, helping you identify and fix errors, verify layout, and confirm compliance.

## When should I use this guide?

Use it anytime you build a new campaign and want to ensure that formatting, variables, and media appear correctly before launch.

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## 1. Why send a test message?

* Verify formatting: view layout, buttons, and personalization.
* Catch errors early: spot typos, broken links, or wrong variables.
* Confirm media: ensure images, videos, or PDFs render correctly.
* Compliance check: confirm tone and content match WhatsApp Business Policy.

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## 2. How to send a test message

1. In the Campaign Setup screen, click Send Test (or Preview Message).
2. Enter your WhatsApp number (or a designated test number).
3. Click Send.
4. Review the message on your phone; check placeholders, links, and media.

![](https://content.api.getguru.com/files/view/6b89d014-6f7f-4aa2-a505-b8650b5ee8ab)

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## 3. Do vs. Don’t checklist

| ✅ Do | ❌ Don’t |
| --- | --- |
| Test every campaign before launch | Skip testing because “the template worked last time.” |
| Use a real WhatsApp device (mobile or web) | Preview only in the dashboard without checking the device view |
| Enter sample values for variables (e.g., Name, Date) | Leave placeholders like `{{1}}` unmapped |
| Check media + buttons on mobile | Assume media renders correctly |
| Share test results with teammates | Rely on one person’s glance |

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## 4. Notes & limitations

* Test messages use live template content but do not deliver to audience contacts.
* Credit amount is deducted for test messages.
* Personalized fields may only populate if sample data is added.

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## 5. Best-practices checklist

* Always send at least one test message per campaign.
* Verify all variables populate correctly.
* Check media formatting (size, type, resolution).
* Click links and CTAs to ensure they work.
* Test on both mobile and WhatsApp Web/Desktop.
* Have a colleague review the test message before launch.
* Treat test messages like a final dress rehearsal—two minutes now can save hours later.

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Keywords: test message, campaign preview, WhatsApp template, send test