Xml To Apkg Better [2026]

Converting XML data into an Anki package (.apkg) is a multi-step process because Anki does not natively support direct XML imports. You generally have to transform the structured XML into a simple format like CSV first, or use a specialized script/tool to bundle it directly into a database file. 1. The Direct Conversion Path (Recommended)

If you aren't comfortable with coding, there are specific third-party tools designed to handle this bridge, particularly for common XML sources like Brainyoo or older flashcard apps.

White Rock Software: This developer offers a specialized XML to Anki converter often cited by the community for its ability to handle complex card structures.

AnkiWeb Add-ons: Check the Anki Shared Add-ons list for specific importers. While many are old, some community members have built custom XML parsers that can be adapted. 2. The Manual "Middleman" Method (CSV)

For "putting together a long piece" (large datasets), the most stable method is converting your XML to a Spreadsheet (CSV/XLSX) and then importing that into Anki. xml to apkg

Flatten the XML: Use an online tool like Wondershare PDFelement or Convertio to turn your XML into an Excel file.

Clean the Data: Ensure your spreadsheet has clear columns (e.g., Column A for "Front" and Column B for "Back").

Import to Anki: Save as a .csv (UTF-8 encoded). In Anki, go to File > Import and map your columns to the correct card fields. 3. The Power User Path (Python/Genanki)

If you have a very complex XML structure (with images, sounds, or nested tags), the best "long piece" solution is a Python script using the genanki library. Converting XML data into an Anki package (

Parse with xml.etree.ElementTree: Use Python's built-in library to iterate through your "long piece" of XML data and extract the fields.

Generate .apkg with genanki: This library allows you to programmatically create Anki notes and decks, then export them directly as a .apkg file. This is the most efficient way to handle thousands of cards without manual error. Summary of Tools Suggested Option

5. Graphical Interface (Optional)

  • Drag & drop XML file
  • Visual field mapping (tree view ↔ Anki note fields)
  • Live preview of first 10 cards
  • Export progress bar

B. If you have generic XML with flashcard data (custom schema)

  1. Inspect the XML to identify fields (e.g., ……).
  2. Convert XML to a CSV or TSV with columns for each Anki field:
    • Extract front and back into two columns (or more, matching desired note type).
    • Use a script (Python recommended) or an XML-to-CSV tool.

Example Python (minimal) to produce UTF-8 TSV (frontback per line):

import xml.etree.ElementTree as ET
tree = ET.parse('cards.xml')
root = tree.getroot()
with open('cards.tsv','w',encoding='utf-8') as out:
    for card in root.findall('.//card'):
        front = card.findtext('front','').replace('\t',' ')
        back = card.findtext('back','').replace('\t',' ')
        out.write(f"front\tback\n")

  1. Import the TSV/CSV into Anki:

    • Anki Desktop: File → Import → select the TSV/CSV.
    • Set the correct note type and field mapping (Field 1 → Front, Field 2 → Back).
    • Preview and import.

  2. Add media (if any):

    • Place media files into Anki profile’s collection.media folder before exporting, or add them to notes using in the field text.

  3. Export deck as .apkg (see A.4).

Define Anki model

my_model = genanki.Model( 1607392319, 'Simple Model', fields=['name': 'Question', 'name': 'Answer'], templates=[ 'name': 'Card 1', 'qfmt': 'Question', 'afmt': 'FrontSide<hr id="answer">Answer', ])