How to Obtain DTD From an XML File

The Document Type Definition (DTD) within an XML file serves as a method for determining the XML document type and the document's internal structure. Developers use DTDs to validate the content of XML files, making it easier for them to locate errors within these documents. Most developers embed DTDs within the XML document itself. DTDs in other XML documents exist within the document as a standalone file with a ".dtd" extension, with a local file directory link or a URL hyperlink used as a callback within the XML document.

Things You'll Need

• Text editor

Instructions

1. Click "File" and select "Open" on the text editor. Select the XML file in the "Browse" dialog window, and then click "Open."

2. Locate "<!DOCTYPE root_element" near the top of the XML file, underneath "<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?>."

3. Copy and paste the information found between the brackets. If the XML file references an external DTD (i.e., "<!DOCTYPE ARTICLES SYSTEM "D:\articles.dtd">"), locate the DTD at the specified location.

References

• "XML Tutorial: The Document Type Definition -- aka DTD"; C# Computing, LLC; 2009