Modifying local javascript variables in the console

Question

If a page has code that wraps all variables in a scope, like this:

$(function() {
    var attempts = 3;
});

Is it possible to edit the variables inside that scope from the browser console (eg Developer Tools for Chrome or Firebug for Firefox)?

Answer 1

Yes, just set a breakpoint. Upon reaching the breakpoint you can modify all variables that are in scope at the breakpoint - including those hidden within closures.