Why would you need to format XML code?
XML exported from a system or API is often crammed onto one line with no indentation, which makes it very hard to see which elements are nested inside which. Formatting adds proper line breaks and indentation for every tag, so you can trace the document's structure visually and edit it with confidence.
The XML structure that makes formatting clear
XML is built from nested elements, where each opening tag needs a matching closing tag, and elements inside a tag should be indented one level deeper than their parent — much like HTML's structure. The most common thing that hurts readability is losing track of which closing tag belongs to which opening tag in a long, unindented file. The tool automatically applies consistent indentation for every nested level, making it immediately obvious where one element ends and the next begins.
Steps to format
The tool formats your code instantly:
Open the XML Formatter tool
Open the tool directly from the tools page.
Paste your XML code
Paste the code you want to format into the input box.
Let the tool format it
The tool automatically applies indentation for every nested element.
Copy the result
Copy the ready formatted code or download it as a file.
Practical tips
Before formatting your code, keep these points in mind:
- Check for unclosed tags after formatting, since a missing closing tag can throw off the indentation of everything after it.
- Use the formatted version while reviewing or debugging data exported from another system.
- Review deeply nested elements carefully, since indentation makes structural mistakes easier to spot there.
- Keep consistent formatting across your project's files to make future edits easier for anyone on the team.
Since the tool runs with no sign-up and no permanent storage of your data, there's no need to worry about the privacy of the code you're formatting.
Common use cases
- Cleaning up XML data exported from an API or a third-party system.
- Reviewing a configuration file's structure before deploying changes.
- Understanding an XML feed or sitemap generated by another tool.
- Preparing code for team review before merging it into a project.
Why choose Fastols?
Clear element structure
Consistent indentation for every nested level
No data upload
Your code is processed directly in your browser
Completely free
Unlimited use with no hidden fees
Fast, readable formatting
A clear structure that makes review easier
Frequently Asked Questions
Does formatting change the file's content?
No, formatting only rearranges the code visually without changing any actual element or value.
Does the tool automatically fix missing tags?
The tool formats the available code and highlights where the issue is, but the final fix is up to you.
Is the file I paste stored with you?
No, we don't keep or permanently store any copy of your data.
Is the tool completely free?
Yes, you can use it for free with no limit on how many times you use it.
Can I format a large XML file without the tool slowing down?
The tool is built to handle large files efficiently, though performance depends on your device and the actual file size.
Ready to format your XML code?
Try the XML formatter for free right now — no sign-up, no software to install.
Try the XML Formatter Now