Merge Tag Previewer
Test your email personalization with different data values
Personalization Made Easy
Personalized emails generate 6x higher transaction rates than non-personalized emails. But testing personalization tags can be challenging without sending test emails. Our Merge Tag Previewer allows you to instantly see how your personalized content will appear with different data values.
How This Tool Helps
This tool lets you paste your email content with merge tags and test it with sample data to ensure everything works correctly. You can identify missing or unused fields, fix formatting issues, and preview the final personalized result before sending.
Email Template with Merge Tags
Preview Result
Your personalized preview will appear here.
Enter your template with merge tags and test data, then click "Preview Personalization".
Merge Tag Tips & Best Practices
Common Merge Tag Formats
Different email service providers use different formats for merge tags. Our tool supports the most common format with double curly braces, but here's how they typically look across different platforms:
| Platform | Format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Mailchimp | *|TAG|* |
Hello *|FNAME|* |
| Constant Contact | $$TAG$$ |
Hello $$firstname$$ |
| Campaign Monitor | [TAG] |
Hello [firstname] |
| SendGrid | |
Hello |
| Hubspot | {{ tag }} |
Hello {{ contact.firstname }} |
Best Practices for Personalization
- Always include fallbacks: Not all recipients will have all data fields populated. Consider using default values like
{{first_name|"Friend"}}(format varies by platform). - Test thoroughly: Preview with different data combinations, including missing fields and edge cases like very long names.
- Keep it relevant: Only personalize with data that adds value. Too much personalization can feel intrusive.
- Go beyond just names: Consider personalizing based on past interactions, purchase history, or preferences.
- Check formatting: Ensure proper capitalization of names and other fields that require specific formatting.
Advanced Personalization Ideas
- Dynamic content blocks: Show or hide entire sections based on recipient attributes.
- Conditional phrasing: Use different wording based on customer status (new vs. returning).
- Behavioral personalization: Reference specific actions like "We noticed you viewed our pricing page".
- Location-based content: Adjust content based on recipient's geography, like local events or weather.
- Personalized recommendations: Include product or content recommendations based on past behavior.
Need More Advanced Personalization?
With a Buffsend account, you get access to more advanced personalization features:
- Conditional content blocks that display based on recipient attributes
- Advanced merge tag formatting with fallback values
- Personalized images and dynamic content
- Behavioral-triggered personalization based on website or email activity
- Create a free account to access these features
