Welcome to the New Flatfile Docs

We’ve completely redesigned the Flatfile documentation to make it easier for you to build powerful data import experiences.

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We Want Your Feedback

These docs are designed as a living, evolving resource that we’re actively improving based on your real-world experience. Your feedback directly shapes how we prioritize updates, add new content, and refine existing guides.

We’d love to hear:

• What’s working well for you?
• What’s still confusing or hard to find?
• What examples or guides would be most helpful?
• How can we make your development experience smoother?

Share your thoughts:

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What’s Improved

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Clearer Structure

We’ve organized content into a progressive learning path that grows with you:

• Getting Started - Jump right in with AutoBuild or build from scratch
• Core Concepts - Understand the fundamental building blocks
• Plugins - Discover pre-built solutions for common data challenges
• Advanced Guides - Deep-dive into complex scenarios and customizations
• Embedding Flatfile - Simple, focused integration guides for every framework
• Reference - Technical details when you need them

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Better Navigation

• Progressive disclosure - Start simple, dive deeper as needed
• Consistent patterns - Same structure across similar pages
• Clear pathways - Obvious next steps from any page
• Reduced cognitive load - Less overwhelming, more actionable

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Improved First Experience

We’ve redesigned the documentation to be more welcoming to newcomers while still serving advanced users. Instead of overwhelming you with every option upfront, we now guide you step-by-step through the most common paths first - like reading a book rather than a reference manual.

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AI and LLM Integration

Built-in support for AI tools and Large Language Models with optimized formats and quick access features:

• Contextual AI menu - Copy pages as Markdown, open directly in ChatGPT or Claude
• LLM-optimized files - /llms.txt for structure overview, /llms-full.txt for comprehensive context
• Markdown versions - Every page available in clean Markdown format for better AI processing

Learn more about LLM integration

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The Reasoning Behind the Redesign

Our previous documentation grew organically over time, leading to:

• Scattered information across multiple locations
• Overwhelming choices that paralyzed new developers
• Marketing-heavy language that obscured practical guidance
• Inconsistent terminology and outdated definitions
• Complex configuration examples that made simple tasks seem difficult

The new structure follows these principles:

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Single Source of Truth

Core concepts are defined once in the Core Concepts section and referenced consistently throughout. No more conflicting definitions across different pages.

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Step-by-Step Progression

Start with the simplest approach that works, then provide clear paths to more advanced configurations when needed. Like reading a book, not a reference manual.

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Minimal but Reusable Setup

Emphasize that Flatfile works with minimal configuration, encouraging you to get started quickly and iterate from there.

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Clear Decision Points

When there are multiple approaches, we explain the tradeoffs and help you choose the right one for your use case.

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What’s Next

This is just the beginning. We’re continuously improving based on your feedback and usage patterns. Some areas we’re actively working on:

• Enhanced search and discovery - Making it easier to find exactly what you need
• More hands-on guides - Step-by-step tutorials for common scenarios
• Improved API reference - Better examples and clearer descriptions
• Video walkthroughs - Visual guides for complex workflows

Ready to dive in? Start with our Getting Started guide or explore Embedding Flatfile if you’re ready to integrate.

Thanks for being part of the Flatfile community! 🚀