How to create a loop in a Bubble.io workflow?

Learn how to create a loop in a Bubble.io workflow with step-by-step instructions to process data, set custom states, and use recursive backend workflows effectively.

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Overview

Creating loops in a Bubble.io workflow allows for efficient handling of repetitive tasks. First, set up your data by creating a data type (e.g., "Items") and ensure your database is populated. Next, create a custom state to hold your list. Initialize the loop via a button click that sets a custom index state. Use recursive backend workflows to process each item by incrementing the index and scheduling the next workflow. Finally, test and debug to ensure smooth operation. Follow these steps and optimize as needed for seamless automation.

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How to create a loop in a Bubble.io workflow?

Creating a Loop in a Bubble.io Workflow Step 1: Setting Up Initial Data

Create a data type to store the items you want to loop through (e.g., "Items").
Ensure your Bubble database has a list of "Items" that you'll process in the workflow.

Step 2: Create a Custom State

Create a custom state on a page or reusable element to hold your list of "Items".
Set the state type to "Items" and make it a list.
Initialize this state with the list of items you intend to loop through.

Step 3: Initialize the Loop

Create a workflow event, such as a button click, to initiate the loop.
Add an action in this workflow to set a custom state (e.g., "Current Index") to 1, which will track your loop index.

Step 4: Loop Workflow with Recursive Backend Workflow

Navigate to the Backend Workflows section in Bubble (also known as API Workflows).
Create a new backend workflow that will process the current item in the list:

Add a parameter to this backend workflow to pass the index of the current item.
Add actions within this backend workflow to process the item at the current index.
For example, if you are updating items, add an action to make changes to a thing.

At the end of the actions, add another action to call the same backend workflow recursively, incrementing the index. This setup ensures the loop continues until the end of the list:

Only call the recursive workflow if the current index is less than the total number of items.
Use "Schedule API Workflow" to schedule calling the backend workflow again with the incremented index.

Step 5: Schedule the Initial Backend Workflow

Go back to the workflow where you set the custom state "Current Index".
Add an action to schedule the backend workflow you created, starting with index 1.
Pass the index and list of "Items" to the backend workflow.

Step 6: Testing and Debugging

Test the entire workflow to ensure it processes each item as expected.
Check logs and debug any issues that arise during the looping process.
Refine and optimize the workflow as necessary to handle edge cases or large data sets efficiently.

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