# Format CSS source code

> Indent CSS rules and declarations for easier review before committing or publishing.

Canonical: https://staticx.site/css-formatter

## Make CSS readable

Indent rules and declarations so selectors, media queries, and overrides are easier to inspect.

## Useful before cleanup

Format copied or minified CSS before removing dead styles or fixing conflicts.

## Better agent handoff

Readable CSS is easier for AI agents and teammates to modify safely.

## How to use CSS Formatter

Format CSS before debugging selectors, media queries, cascade conflicts, or generated styles.

1. **Paste CSS** — Add the stylesheet or snippet that needs indentation.
2. **Format source** — StaticX returns readable CSS with line breaks and spacing.
3. **Review selectors** — Check cascade, media queries, and duplicate rules before publishing.

## CSS formatting turns cascade debugging into something humans can do.

When selectors are dense, it is easy to miss a media query, duplicate rule, or override that affects mobile layout.

Format first, then make design changes deliberately. That keeps StaticX file edits safer and easier to version.

## CSS cleanup checkpoints

- **Great for copied CSS** — Unpack generated or pasted styles before editing them.
- **Does not validate layout** — Formatting helps reading. Browser QA still confirms the design.
- **Works with small files** — For full applications, use your project formatter or build tooling.

## FAQ

### Can formatting fix broken CSS?

No. It makes the stylesheet easier to read, but invalid declarations still need manual correction.

### Can I format Tailwind output?

You can, but generated utility CSS is usually better managed by the build system.

### Should agents format CSS before edits?

Yes when the current file is minified or hard to read. It reduces accidental cascade mistakes.

[View on staticx.site](https://staticx.site/css-formatter)