Format XML in Notepad++
Inspect XML, check tags and use formatting tools carefully.
Quick answer
Open the XML file, choose the XML language for highlighting, then use a compatible formatter plugin if needed.
When to use this feature
XML syntax highlighting helps locate opening and closing tags, attributes and nested elements.
Step-by-step instructions for Windows users
- Open Notepad++ on Windows 10 or Windows 11 and save a backup of the file you plan to edit.
- Open the XML file, choose the XML language for highlighting, then use a compatible formatter plugin if needed.
- A valid XML document needs properly nested tags and correctly escaped special characters.
- Review the result and save a separate copy before replacing the original file.
Important details and compatibility
A valid XML document needs properly nested tags and correctly escaped special characters.
Menu labels can differ between versions, and plugins may require a compatible build. Check the application settings on your own PC rather than assuming all installations have the same options.
Common mistakes and safety
Make a backup before applying a formatter because whitespace can be significant to some XML consumers.
If the result differs from what you expected, undo the change, reopen the original copy, and repeat the steps with a smaller sample.
Frequently asked question
Does Notepad++ validate XML automatically?
Syntax highlighting alone is not XML validation; use a validator for schema or structure checks.
Does this work in the US and Canada?
These Windows editing features are not region-restricted. The instructions use American English menu terminology and apply to supported Windows PCs in the United States and Canada.
Related Notepad++ resources
See the download guide, Windows 11 instructions, FAQ, and all tutorials.
Editorial team · Published 2026-10-20 · Updated 2026-10-20. This is an instructional guide, not a claim of hands-on testing on every Windows build.