How to use Code Node in n8n - Data Structure & Limitations | Python in n8n | n8n Course Tutorial

Want more flexibility than expressions give you in n8n? Meet the Code Node in n8n — your gateway to writing custom JavaScript or Python directly inside n8n workflows.

In this lesson from the n8n Zero to Hero Course, we’ll deep dive into the Code Node, how it works, and when to use it. You’ll learn how to manipulate data, filter items, generate new objects, and handle workflows where the number of outputs doesn’t match the number of inputs. I will also talk about the limitations of the code node.

👇 Here’s what you’ll learn in this video:
✅ What the Code Node is in n8n and how it works
✅ How Code Node differs from Expressions
✅ Writing multi-line JavaScript/Python logic in AI Automation workflows in n8n
✅ How to manipulate and transform data dynamically in n8n
✅ Handling mismatched input/output counts correctly
✅ Real-world use cases where n8n Code Node is essential

By the end of this lesson, you’ll know how to use Code Node in n8n to push beyond no-code limits of AI Automation workflows, giving you full control over data and workflows in n8n.

⏱️ Timestamps / Video Chapters:
0:00 Intro
Intro: Why Code Node Matters
Expressions vs Code Node (Key Differences)
What Is the Code Node in n8n?
Writing Multi-Line JavaScript/Python Logic
Transforming & Filtering Data with Code Node
Handling Mismatched Input/Output Items
Real-World Code Node Examples
Recap & What’s Next (HTTP Node)

📌 Who This Video Is For:
✔️ Beginners ready to move into low-code automation
✔️ Builders needing custom logic inside workflows
✔️ Developers combining APIs and data transformations
✔️ Anyone curious about extending n8n beyond drag-and-drop nodes

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💡 Why This Lesson Matters:
Expressions are powerful — but limited. n8n Code Node unlocks advanced workflow logic by letting you write multi-line code, giving you full control over inputs, outputs, and transformations. It’s the bridge between no-code and developer-grade automations in n8n.


📥 Helpful Links:
🛠️ Sign up for n8n Cloud → https://app.n8n.cloud/register
🛠️ Download the workflow shown in this video → COMING SOON in Community
▶️ Watch the Full n8n Zero to Hero Course Playlist → https://tinyurl.com/3rw3x6hy
🌐 Join the GenAI Unplugged Community → https://genaiunplugged.com/subscribe

🙌 Like this video? Here’s what to do next:
✅ Hit thumbs up to support the channel
✅ Subscribe for weekly n8n automation tutorials & lessons
✅ Drop a comment: What workflow would you like me to build next?

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