How to Create XSL From an XML File
XSL is a stylesheet language used to format elements created in XML. Therefore, XSL is typically written by hand using a stylesheet editor. XSL is supported by most major Web development tools, including Dreamweaver and Microsoft's Visual Web Developer. Stylesheet generators are freely available on the Web. However, it is a simple matter to create an XSL stylesheet that prints all XML elements in your document.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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1
Create a new XSL file using your XML/XSL editor.
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2
If it has not been automatically inserted by the XML editor, create a <stylesheet> declaration as follows:
<xsl:stylesheet version="1.0" xmlns:xsl="http://www.w3.org/1999/XSL/Transform"> -
3
Set your output method to XML as shown:
<xsl:output method="xml" /> -
4
Create a template that copies all of the elements in your document:
<xsl:template match="@* | node()">
<xsl:copy>
<xsl:apply-templates select="@* | node()"/>
</xsl:copy>
</xsl:template> -
5
Add your closing </xsl:stylesheet> tag.
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6
Save and test your file. The resulting transformation will display the content from every element in your XML file.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If you receive errors, ensure that your XSL file is both valid and well formed.
Not all XML processors require an <apply-templates> element. Microsoft technology, however, requires this statement.
Some visual tools will allow you to map your XML elements and generate XSL automatically.
The relationships between XML, XSL, and software development environments can be complex. Ensure that you can successfully run a basic example in your environment before attempting more complex transformations.
