> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.gpmautomate.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.gpmautomate.com/automate-en/action-guides/variables/decrease-variable.md).

# Decrease variable

In the Output variable field, you can enter the same name as the old variable to subtract the value cumulatively, or enter a completely different variable name to store the result in a new variable without changing the old variable.

* Decrease by: The amount you want to subtract (e.g., `1`, `2`, `5`...).
* Example: You have a variable `$countdown = 10`.
  * If you enter *Output variable* as `$countdown` and *Decrease by* as `1` ➡️ The variable `$countdown` will decrease to `9` (cumulative subtraction).
  * If you enter *Output variable* as `$previousRow` and *Decrease by* as `1` ➡️ The variable `$countdown` remains `10`, while the new variable `$previousRow` will have a value of `9`.

<figure><img src="/files/Krnm1xerMgGNVoJVxcuq" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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