YAML Formatter
Format, beautify and standardize your YAML data
YAML Input
Formatted Output
What is YAML Formatter?
Got messy YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language) that's impossible to read? This tool fixes that. It takes your YAML and makes it beautiful – proper indentation, line breaks, everything organized. Whether you're working with Docker Compose, Kubernetes configs, CI/CD pipelines, or just trying to understand what your YAML actually says, this makes it readable.
According to YAML specification, YAML is a human-readable data serialization standard. Our formatter follows YAML standards, so your formatted YAML is always valid and standards-compliant. Perfect for config files, data files, or any YAML-based configuration.
Best part? Everything happens instantly in your browser. No server uploads, no data storage – just paste, format, and copy. Your YAML stays private.
What Makes This Tool Different
Pretty Print Instantly
Paste minified YAML and get perfectly formatted output in milliseconds. We use consistent indentation so nested structures are easy to read.
Syntax Validation
While we format, we also validate your YAML. If something's broken, we'll show you exactly where so you can fix it fast.
Customizable Indentation
Choose between 2-space or 4-space indentation. Toggle it in the settings to match your project's style guide.
Key Sorting Option
Sort keys alphabetically for consistent formatting. Great for version control diffs or when you need predictable output.
File Upload Support
Got a big file? Just upload it. Works with .yaml and .yml files. No need to copy-paste – just drag and drop or click upload.
Copy & Download
One click to copy, or download it as a .yaml file. Perfect for saving formatted versions or sharing with your team.
How It Works
Paste or Upload YAML
Paste your YAML code into the left editor, or click "Upload" to load a file. You can also click "Sample" to see example YAML. The tool accepts any valid YAML structure – keys, values, nested objects, arrays, you name it.
Automatic Formatting
As soon as you paste, the formatter processes your YAML and displays the beautifully formatted version on the right. Nested structures get proper indentation, keys are aligned, and everything is organized perfectly. You can customize indentation size or enable key sorting.
Copy or Download
Click "Copy" to copy the formatted YAML to your clipboard, or "Download" to save it as a file. All processing happens instantly in your browser.
When You'd Actually Use This
Docker Compose
Format Docker Compose YAML files to understand the structure, debug issues, or improve readability. Works great with docker-compose.yml files.
Kubernetes Configs
Format Kubernetes YAML manifests to review deployments, services, or config maps. Makes it easier to spot errors or understand configurations.
CI/CD Pipelines
Format GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, or other CI/CD YAML configs. Easier to review, debug, or modify pipeline configurations.
Config File Review
Reviewing YAML configuration files? Format them first to see the structure clearly. Makes it easier to spot errors, understand settings, or compare different configurations.
Common Questions
Is my YAML data stored?
No. All formatting happens in your browser using JavaScript. Your YAML never leaves your computer.
What YAML formats are supported?
We support all valid YAML according to the YAML specification. Keys, values, nested structures, arrays, multi-line strings – everything standard YAML supports.
Can I format invalid YAML?
We'll try to format it, but if there are syntax errors, the output might not be perfect. Fix syntax errors first for best results. Use our YAML Validator to check first.
What indentation does it use?
You can choose between 2-space or 4-space indentation. Toggle it in the settings. The default follows common YAML formatting conventions.
How big can my file be?
Since processing happens in your browser, performance depends on your device. Small files format instantly. Very large files (several MB) might take a few seconds, but they'll still work.
Does key sorting affect functionality?
No. Key sorting is purely cosmetic – it only changes the order keys appear, not their values or functionality. Useful for consistent formatting or cleaner diffs.
Other YAML Tools You Might Need
Formatting is just one YAML task. Here are other tools that work well together:
Need to learn more about YAML? Check out the official YAML.org website or the comprehensive YAML specification.