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xpath-basics

XPath basics

Last reviewed Jun 1, 2026 Content v20260601
Track mode
iframe_xml
Means
XML preview sandbox
Reading
~1 min
Level
intermediate

This lesson

This lesson teaches XPath basics—the ideas, syntax, and habits you need before moving on in XML.

Many integration jobs still query or transform XML—this skill unlocks configs, feeds, and legacy pipelines.

You will apply XPath basics in contexts like: Enterprise integration, publishing pipelines, Android resources, and data exchange alongside JSON.

Edit XML in the playground, watch well-formedness feedback, preview rendered output, then complete the quizzes.

When the previous lesson's MCQs feel easy and you can explain XPath basics in your own words.

XPath selects nodes in an XML tree. Paths use / for root-down, // for anywhere, . current, .. parent.

  • /library/book — books under library
  • //title — all title elements
  • /library/book[1] — first book (1-based in XPath 1.0)

Challenge

Select titles

  1. Keep a small <library> with three <book><title> nodes.
  2. In notes, write the XPath //title and what it returns.

Done when: document is well-formed and you can explain the node list mentally.

Interview prep

What is XPath?

A path language for selecting nodes in an XML tree — used in XSLT, XPointer, and many test tools.

Interview tip Lesson completion confidence

Can you explain this lesson in 30 seconds without reading notes?

Not saved yet.

Playground

Runs in your browser in a sandboxed frame. Backend runners appear when this track’s profile allows them.

Check yourself

Multiple choice — immediate feedback.

Discussion

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