XanoScript is in beta and while we have made every effort to ensure that all permutations of what you can build in Xano are supported in XanoScript, there may be some outliers. Please take extra care when using XanoScript in production.
What is XanoScript?
At Xano, we set out to create a language that combines the structure of JSON/XML/YAML with the flexibility of TypeScript—without the overhead and inconsistency that often slows teams down.Why XanoScript Exists
The result is XanoScript: a markup language that lets you configure Xano programmatically while still supporting visual development. It gives you code-level control of your backend in a way that’s structured, collaborative, and AI-friendly.Why XanoScript Matters
AI-Ready Structure
TypeScript gives AI too much room for variation. XanoScript enforces clear, optimized patterns so AI-generated code is predictable, scalable, and easy to maintain.
Unified Configuration
Define everything—database, APIs, business logic, background tasks, deployment—in a single consistent language.
Built for Collaboration
Developers write code, while product managers and non-technical teammates work visually in Xano. Both stay aligned in real time.
Flexible Workflow
Start in Xano’s visual editor, continue in XanoScript, or switch back and forth anytime. Use VS Code, Cursor, or your preferred AI model.
AI-Powered Development
Unlike one-off AI generators, XanoScript lets you generate, deploy, and iterate continuously—visually or with code—without starting over.
Accessible Yet Powerful
If you understand JSON, YAML, or JavaScript—or already use Xano—you’re ready to build with XanoScript.
What You Can Do with XanoScript
AI-Generated Code
Generate XanoScript with your favorite AI models and import it directly into Xano.
Instant Backend Deployment
Spin up a backend using AI, deploy instantly, and iterate visually as you go.
Seamless Visual & Code Workflow
Start visually in Xano, expand into code, and switch between both at any time.
Universal Integration
Use XanoScript anywhere in Xano—from database design to function stacks.
Getting Started with XanoScript
Explore XanoScript in your workspaces
Everything you’ve already built in Xano has XanoScript already written.- Click the ⋮ icon in the top-right corner of your screen, and choose Settings.
- Click XanoScript in the menu that opens.
Build with XanoScript
When using the visual builder in Xano, you’re already writing XanoScript without any extra effort. If you prefer to work code-first, you can develop in XanoScript inside of Xano or an IDE of your choice. Any time you’re creating something new in Xano, you can select the XanoScript option.Look for the Use XanoScript option
This option will be available when creating most new objects in Xano, such as APIs, Custom Functions, Background Tasks, and more.
Look for the XanoScript option
In some object types, such as AI Agents that open with a settings panel immediately, you’ll see a XanoScript option at the top of the panel.
Use the VS Code Extension
You can also use the VS Code extension to write XanoScript in an IDE of your choice. You should be able to use any IDE that supports VS Code extensions, such as Cursor or Windsurf, as well as VS Code itself.Get the VS Code extension here
Learn how XanoScript is written
You can learn how each object is written in XanoScript by reviewing the individual pages for each object type. Select one below to get started.
XanoScript for Logic / Workflows
APIs & Custom Functions
Addons
Background Tasks
Triggers
Middleware
Unit Tests
Workflow Tests
APIs & Custom Functions
Addons
Background Tasks
Triggers
Middleware
Unit Tests
Workflow Tests
You can also learn more about how each of our functions and filters is written using XanoScript in our function and filter references.