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What This Node Does

The Convert node changes the data type of columns. Use it to convert text to numbers, numbers to dates, dates to text, and more. Proper data types are essential for correct calculations, sorting, filtering, and data exports. [SCREENSHOT: Convert node on canvas showing “Converted 3 columns: amount (text→number), order_date (text→date), active (text→boolean)“]

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When to Use This Node

Use the Convert node when you need to:
  • Fix imported data types - CSV imports often treat everything as text
  • Enable calculations - Convert text numbers to integers/floats for SUM, AVG
  • Fix sorting - Convert text numbers to integers for proper numeric sorting (1, 2, 10, 20 instead of 1, 10, 2, 20)
  • Parse dates - Convert text dates (“2024-01-15”) to actual date type for filtering

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Step-by-Step Usage Guide

1

Add Convert node to canvas

2

Connect to upstream data

3

Select column to convert

Choose which column to convert[SCREENSHOT: Column selector showing column name and current type]
4

Choose target type

Select new data type: String, Integer, Float, Date, Datetime, or Boolean[SCREENSHOT: Target type dropdown]
5

Configure format (for dates)

If converting dates, specify source format (e.g., MM/DD/YYYY, YYYY-MM-DD)[SCREENSHOT: Date format selector]
6

Set error handling

Choose what happens on conversion failure: Set to NULL, Stop Workflow, or Keep Original[SCREENSHOT: Error handling options]
7

Preview results

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Tips and Best Practices

Convert Early: Place Convert node right after Input to work with correct types throughout workflow.
Match Date Formats Exactly: If data is “01/15/2024”, format must be “MM/DD/YYYY”. Mismatch = failed conversion.
Set to NULL Default: Use “Set to NULL” error handling unless you have specific reason to stop workflow. Makes debugging easier.
Preview Before Converting: Check sample values to understand actual format before specifying conversion format.
Batch Conversions: Convert multiple related columns in one Convert node rather than separate nodes.
Integer vs Float: Use Integer for counts, IDs, whole quantities. Use Float for prices, percentages, measurements.