# Test an exact query without changing data

Choose sources and typed matches, then inspect the query and source data that produced the answer.

Source: https://help.smartfact.ai/manuals/configsheets/queries

Review edition: 25 October 2026

Roles: owner, operator, viewer

Test a query helps inspect current accepted data without editing a source or approving a reusable rule. Begin with the source type or exact source and the question the query needs to answer. Keep source status and typed matching visible in the finding.

## Choose meaningful exact matches

Open Test a query and Choose what to find. Select the source scope and add the required parameter or data matches. Choose Text, Whole number, True or false or null according to the source meaning.

Text preserves exact codes, including leading zeros. A whole-number value must use safe integer syntax. Do not convert a code to a number merely because it contains digits. A null match also differs from empty text or a missing source fact.

Parameter filters describe tab-level metadata; data filters inspect records. Read the chosen filter scope before running. If using the advanced JSON view, inspect the complete expression and switch controls carefully so the executed query matches the intended question.

## Inspect the executed result

Run query and read Query that produced these results. Confirm the selected source and typed matches. Inspect matching sheets, their parameters and rows, and use the result pagination for the remaining sheets. A later edit to the query form does not change the earlier result's recorded executed specification.

Read source receipt and status as well as matching values. An answer can reflect a stale accepted snapshot. It is not evidence that the supplying system was read again at the moment you clicked Run query.

## Keep enquiries separate from approval

A successful query does not publish a saved selection, generate a feed or authorise stock changes. Use an independently reviewed selection or feed policy where the same decision should govern repeatable operational work.

Give the Author the exact source scope, typed conditions, intended matching and refusal cases when asking for a reusable definition. Follow [Run reviewed selections](/manuals/configsheets/saved-selections). If the result is surprising, inspect the exact text and types before assuming the source is missing or the query engine should guess another interpretation.