How to Format and Validate XML
Published September 13, 2026 · 2 min read
Like HTML, XML pulled from an API response or config export is often minified or inconsistently indented. This tool re-formats it with proper nesting so the document structure is actually readable.
Try XML FormatterSteps
- 1
Open the XML Formatter tool
Go to the XML formatter.
- 2
Paste your XML
Paste the document you want to clean up.
- 3
Format
The tool re-indents it with consistent, properly nested structure.
- 4
Copy or download the result
Use the readable, formatted XML.
Frequently asked questions
Yes — if the XML has a syntax error, you'll get a clear parsing error rather than a silently broken formatting attempt.
No — only whitespace and indentation change; elements, attributes and text content stay exactly as they were.
Yes — use the XML to JSON tool if you need the data in JSON format rather than just formatted XML.
Because formatting is instant and local, this is a quick way to make an XML export or API response actually readable.