Free online OPML to RST converter

OPML (Outline Processor Markup Language) is an XML-based format used to store outlines, lists, and feed subscriptions. RST (reStructuredText) is a lightweight markup format commonly used for technical documentation, especially in the Python ecosystem.

What is OPML to RST conversion

Converting OPML to RST means turning an outline structure into a documentation-friendly plain text format. This is useful when you want to reuse hierarchical notes, blog outlines, or RSS subscription lists as structured documentation, manuals, or project notes in reStructuredText.

Why convert OPML to RST

This conversion is helpful when you need:

• Readable documentation from outline data
• Plain text source files for version control
• Easy publishing with documentation tools
• Better portability across editors and platforms

How the conversion works

An OPML file usually contains nested <outline> elements. During conversion, these outlines are mapped to RST headings, bullet lists, or nested sections depending on the structure. For example, top-level outlines can become section titles, while child nodes can become bullet points or subheadings.

Best software for OPML to RST conversion

The best choice depends on your workflow:

• Python scripts with OPML parsing libraries are the most flexible option for accurate custom conversion.
• pandoc can help in multi-step workflows if you first transform OPML into an intermediate format.
• OPML editors such as OPML Editor or outline tools can export outlines that are then converted with scripts.

If you need the most reliable result, use a custom Python converter because it can preserve outline hierarchy and format it cleanly for RST.

Recommended conversion workflow

1. Open the OPML file in an outline-aware tool or parser.
2. Extract the outline hierarchy and node titles.
3. Map headings and bullets to RST syntax.
4. Review the output for indentation and section levels.
5. Save the result as .rst.

Example mapping

A simple outline like:

<outline text="Project">
  <outline text="Goals" />
  <outline text="Tasks" />
</outline>

Can be converted into RST as:

Project
=======

* Goals
* Tasks

Things to watch for

• Nested outlines may need careful heading-level mapping.
• Special characters should be escaped correctly in RST.
• Attributes in OPML may not have a direct RST equivalent.
• Formatting consistency is important for valid reStructuredText.

Summary

OPML to RST conversion is best handled by a parser or script that preserves outline structure and outputs clean documentation markup. For most users, a Python-based converter is the best software choice because it offers accuracy, flexibility, and easy automation.