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YAML sequence troubleshooting
The sample starts a ports sequence correctly, then places the second dash one space too far left. Sequence markers at the same list level must align so the parser can tell which items share a parent. This tool is free to use. No account or payment is required.
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The dash is not decorative bullet text. Its indentation determines the sequence level, while any mapping nested inside that item needs additional indentation relative to the dash.
When a mapping contains another sequence, keep the parent mapping key, sequence markers, and nested mapping content visibly separated. Consistent two-space indentation is a common convention even though the parser cares about structure rather than one universal width.
The second port dash must align with the first port dash.
services:
- name: api
ports:
- 80
- 443services:
- name: api
ports:
- 80
- 443Common questions
Sibling items in the same sequence should use the same indentation level. Nested sequences use a deeper level under their parent.
Yes. A sequence item can contain a mapping, but the mapping fields must be indented consistently beneath that item.
Indentation determines parent-child relationships in block YAML, so moving a dash can place the item in another sequence or outside the intended block.
Debugging a specific YAML issue? Browse YAML troubleshooting.