n8n Workflow: Basic HTTP Request Example

This n8n workflow provides a minimal example of how to use the HTTP Request node. It's designed to be a starting point for making API calls within your n8n automations.

What it does

This workflow demonstrates a fundamental n8n pattern:

1. Manual Trigger: The workflow is initiated manually when you click 'Execute workflow' in the n8n editor.
2. Edit Fields (Set): A Set node is included, which can be used to define or transform data before making an HTTP request. In this example, it acts as a placeholder for potential data manipulation.
3. HTTP Request: An HTTP Request node is configured to make an API call. This node is the core of the workflow, demonstrating how to interact with external services.
4. Sticky Note: A Sticky Note is included for documentation within the workflow, providing context or instructions.

Prerequisites/Requirements

• An n8n instance (cloud or self-hosted).
• No external API keys or accounts are strictly required for this basic example, but you would need them if you modify the HTTP Request node to interact with a specific API.

Setup/Usage

1. Import the workflow:
   • Copy the JSON code provided for this workflow.
   • In your n8n instance, click on "Workflows" in the left sidebar.
   • Click "New" or the "+" icon, then select "Import from JSON".
   • Paste the JSON code and click "Import".
2. Inspect the nodes:
   • Manual Trigger: This node starts the workflow.
   • Edit Fields (Set): This node currently does not perform any specific data transformation but serves as an example of where you might add such logic.
   • HTTP Request: This node is pre-configured with default HTTP Request settings. You will need to modify its settings (URL, Method, Headers, Body, etc.) to make it call your desired API.
   • Sticky Note: Contains a simple note.
3. Configure the HTTP Request node:
   • Double-click the "HTTP Request" node.
   • Update the "URL" field to the endpoint you wish to call.
   • Adjust the "Method" (e.g., GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) as needed.
   • Add any required "Headers" (e.g., Authorization for API keys).
   • If making a POST/PUT request, configure the "Body Parameters" or "Body Content".
4. Execute the workflow:
   • Click the "Execute Workflow" button in the n8n editor to run the workflow manually and see the output of the HTTP Request.

This workflow is a foundational template. You can expand upon it by adding more nodes for data processing, error handling, or integrating with other services based on the HTTP Request's response.