Xml Tools Plugin For Notepad ((full)) May 2026

XML Tools Plugin for Notepad++ — Practical Report

Executive summary

XML Tools is a widely used Notepad++ plugin that adds XML-specific editing, validation, formatting, and transformation features. It improves productivity for developers and technical writers who work with XML by providing syntax-aware operations (pretty-print, validation against DTD/XSD, XPath queries, conversion, encoding detection, and more). This report covers capabilities, installation, configuration, common tasks/workflows, limitations, troubleshooting, and recommendations.

The XML Tools plugin offers several features that make it a valuable tool for developers and XML authors: xml tools plugin for notepad

Using the XML Tools plugin for Notepad++ is easy and intuitive. Here's a step-by-step guide: XML Tools Plugin for Notepad++ — Practical Report

Linearize: The opposite of pretty print—compress your file into one line to save space. Open Notepad++

Installation

1. Open Notepad++.
2. Plugins → Plugins Admin.
3. Search for "XML Tools", check it, click Install. Notepad++ may restart.
4. After install, the XML Tools menu appears under Plugins → XML Tools.

1. XML Validation: The plugin allows you to validate XML files against a specified schema or DTD. This feature helps you identify and correct errors in your XML files, ensuring that they are well-formed and valid.
2. XML Formatting: The plugin provides a range of formatting options for XML files, including indentation, line wrapping, and attribute sorting. This feature helps you format your XML files in a consistent and readable manner.
3. XML Tree View: The plugin provides a tree view of your XML file, allowing you to navigate and explore the file's structure and content. This feature is particularly useful for large and complex XML files.
4. XPath Evaluation: The plugin allows you to evaluate XPath expressions against your XML file, making it easier to query and manipulate the file's content.
5. XSLT Transformation: The plugin provides support for XSLT transformations, allowing you to transform your XML files into other formats, such as HTML or text.

Introduction

How to Install the XML Tools Plugin for Notepad++

Note: The plugin was historically managed via the "Plugin Manager." As of Notepad++ v7.6+, the Plugin Admin is the modern method.

Step-by-Step Installation (v8.0+)

1. Download Notepad++: Ensure you have the latest 64-bit or 32-bit version from notepad-plus-plus.org.
2. Launch the Plugin Admin: Go to the menu bar → Plugins → Plugins Admin... .
3. Search: Type XML Tools into the search box.
4. Install: Check the box next to "XML Tools" by C. Aupetit, then click the Install button.
5. Restart: Notepad++ will restart automatically. You will now see a new sub-menu: Plugins > XML Tools.