XML to CSV Guide: Records Become Rows
Learn how repeated XML elements map to CSV rows and why quoting matters.
What is the XML to CSV Converter?
This converter expects the supported shape: a root element holding repeated record elements, each with simple child fields, as in a list of rows exported from a system. It uses the same small built-in parser as the XML to JSON tool, so no browser XML parser is needed. Column names come from the first record, in order, with later fields appended if they appear. Fields containing commas, quotes or line breaks are quoted in the CSV output, with quotes doubled. Nested structures inside a field are not flattened beyond their text, so deeply nested XML is outside this tool's supported shape.
How to use it
- Paste your XML into the box.
- Click Convert to CSV.
- Copy the CSV result.
Worked example
For the sample, the two row elements become a CSV header row name,age,city followed by Ava,28,Leeds and Ben,34,York.
Why does the first record set the columns?
Because CSV needs a fixed header row, and the first record shows which fields exist. Extra fields in later records are appended to the header.
Frequently asked questions
What XML shape does it expect?
A root element containing repeated record elements, each with simple child fields. That is the shape most row exports use.
Are commas in values handled?
Yes. A value containing a comma, quote or line break is quoted, with any quotes inside it doubled.