About github actions yaml validator
A single misplaced space in a workflow file can stop it from running. The validator checks YAML syntax and common workflow mistakes.
It checks
- YAML errors such as bad indentation.
- A missing on trigger or jobs section.
- Jobs without runs-on or steps.
Limits
It does not run the workflow. A file can be valid and still fail at run time, so also watch the Actions tab.
A worked example
A workflow where steps is indented at the same level as runs-on, or where a run line contains an unquoted colon, fails to parse. The validator points to the line, so you can fix it before pushing and waiting for a failed run.
Beyond syntax
- Check that every job has runs-on and steps.
- Make sure the names of secrets match those set in the repository.
- Use the Actions tab to read the logs when a valid file still fails.
