How to Edit an Existing Workflow

Need to update a workflow's settings or modify its steps? This guide shows you how to edit any existing workflow.

Prerequisites

Before you begin:

• You must have an existing workflow
• You need edit permissions for the workflow

Steps

Step 1: Open the Workflow

1. Navigate to Workflows in the sidebar
2. Find the workflow you want to edit
3. Click on the workflow card or name to open it

Step 2: Enter Edit Mode

Look for the Edit button or pencil icon. This may be:

• In the top-right corner of the workflow view
• In a dropdown menu (three dots)
• Directly on editable fields

Step 3: Modify Workflow Details

You can update:

Step 4: Update the Workflow Definition

To modify the actual workflow logic:

1. Click Edit Workflow or Import New Version
2. Upload an updated JSON file, or
3. Modify the workflow using the visual editor (if available)

Step 5: Save Your Changes

Click Save or Update to apply changes. Some changes may save automatically.

Expected Result

After saving:

• Changes appear immediately in the workflow view
• Linked projects show the updated workflow
• Version history records the change (if enabled)

Troubleshooting

Can't enter edit mode

You may not have edit permissions. Check:

• You're the workflow owner, or
• Your team role allows editing

Changes revert after refresh

Ensure you clicked Save before navigating away. Look for a "Unsaved changes" indicator.

Workflow import fails after edit

The new JSON must be valid:

• Check for syntax errors
• Ensure node IDs don't conflict
• Verify the format matches n8n export

Can't unlink a project

The project may have a dependency on this workflow. Check the project settings first.

Next Steps

• Duplicate the workflow for variations
• Link to additional projects
• Review workflow best practices

Related

• Workflows overview — Full workflow documentation
• How to create a workflow