> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.essential.builders/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.essential.builders/learn/declarative-blockchains/what-is-a-declarative-blockchain.md).

# What is a Declarative Blockchain?

A **declarative blockchain** is *a blockchain that leverages constraints to achieve state updates without the need for execution*.

<figure><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/lmlqcfNvjo-LASDY3ktSC0DPekGJllXoBBAAUu28c88YA8IFtH4MLvVH-29v-Uy2LvHF7AyiwmGLvzJyJkSCfjlNHM3fNmVDEyc8fXxWhOe1xQJOJpoUKIPTn1fr6PmUUG4X86XFK0HBYUN_z47_kw" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

(In contrast, an imperative blockchain is *a blockchain that relies on a common execution environment to achieve state transitions*.)

The definition of "declarative blockchain" introduces two key axes:

1. [Does it leverage constraints?](/learn/declarative-blockchains/what-is-a-declarative-blockchain/criterion-1-constraints-on-state.md)
2. [Does it achieve state updates without the need for execution?](/learn/declarative-blockchains/what-is-a-declarative-blockchain/criterion-2-state-updates-without-execution.md)