# Format HTML source code

> Pretty-print HTML with server-side parsing so static page source is easier to scan before publishing.

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

## Make source reviewable

Pretty-print HTML so tags, nesting, forms, and metadata are easier to inspect before publishing.

## Good after AI generation

AI-generated HTML often works but can be hard to audit. Formatting makes review faster.

## Pairs with validation

After formatting, run HTML Validator or HTML Tester to check production readiness.

## How to use HTML Formatter

Make HTML source readable before validation, file editing, agent review, or release publishing.

1. **Paste HTML** — Use a full page or a fragment that needs clean indentation.
2. **Format source** — StaticX returns readable HTML with line breaks and nesting.
3. **Review and publish** — Inspect the output, place it in your file, then publish a new version when ready.

## Formatting is not cosmetic when humans need to maintain the page.

Dense HTML hides duplicated sections, missing closing tags, broken form fields, and metadata mistakes. A formatted file is easier to review in code review, dashboard editing, or agent handoff.

Formatting does not prove correctness by itself. Use it as the first pass before validation, preview, and deployment.

## HTML review checkpoints

- **Useful for form review** — Indented form markup makes labels, names, and required fields easier to inspect.
- **Preserves intent** — The formatter improves readability without trying to redesign the page.
- **Ready for file edits** — Paste the output into StaticX editor or your local project before publishing.

## FAQ

### Can formatting fix invalid HTML?

No. It improves readability. Use HTML Validator to detect parse errors.

### Should I format minified production HTML?

Yes when you need to inspect or edit it. Minify again only if you specifically want compact output.

### Can I format AI-generated pages?

Yes. Formatting is a useful review step before asking an agent or teammate to modify the page.

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