How to Create Your First Workflow

Workflows automate repetitive tasks using n8n-compatible templates. This guide helps you create your first workflow.

Prerequisites

Before you begin:

• You must be signed in to your account
• Basic understanding of what workflows do (see Workflows concept)

Steps

Step 1: Navigate to Workflows

Click Workflows in the sidebar navigation to open the Workflows list.

Step 2: Click New Workflow

Find the New Workflow button in the top-right corner and click it.

Step 3: Choose Your Approach

You have two options:

Option A: Start from Template

1. Browse the template gallery
2. Click on a template that matches your need
3. Click Use This Template
4. Customize as needed

Option B: Create from Scratch

1. Select Blank Workflow
2. You'll start with an empty canvas

Step 4: Configure Workflow Details

Fill in the basic information:

Step 5: Upload or Build the Workflow

If Using n8n Export

1. Export your workflow JSON from n8n
2. Click Import or drag-drop the JSON file
3. The workflow structure will be loaded

If Building Manually

Define the workflow's:

• Trigger (what starts it)
• Steps (what it does)
• Outputs (what it produces)

Step 6: Save the Workflow

Click Create Workflow or Save to finish.

Expected Result

After creation:

• The workflow appears in your Workflows list
• You can view the workflow's nodes and connections
• The workflow is ready to be linked to projects

Troubleshooting

Import fails

Check that your JSON file is valid:

• Must be a valid n8n workflow export
• File size must be under the upload limit
• No corrupted or malformed JSON

Workflow doesn't save

Ensure:

• The name field is not empty
• You have a stable internet connection
• You haven't exceeded your workflow limit

Can't find templates

Templates may be loading. Wait a moment and refresh. If no templates appear, your plan may not include template access.

Next Steps

• Edit your workflow
• Link the workflow to a project
• Duplicate for variations

Related

• Workflows overview — Full workflow documentation
• Projects — Link workflows to projects