PostgreSQL Query Formatter

Format and beautify PostgreSQL queries — support for CTEs, window functions, and PL/pgSQL

What Is PostgreSQL Query Formatting?

PostgreSQL query formatting restructures SQL queries written for PostgreSQL into a consistently indented, readable format. Beyond standard SQL formatting, a PostgreSQL-aware formatter correctly handles PostgreSQL-specific syntax: CTEs (Common Table Expressions with WITH), window functions (OVER with PARTITION BY and ORDER BY), array operators, JSONB operations, PL/pgSQL procedural blocks, custom types, and PostgreSQL's rich set of built-in functions.

PostgreSQL's advanced features produce complex queries that benefit greatly from proper formatting. A CTE with multiple window functions, lateral joins, and JSON aggregation can span dozens of lines — without consistent indentation, understanding the query logic becomes nearly impossible. Formatting is the first step in making PostgreSQL queries maintainable, reviewable, and debuggable across development teams.

How to Format PostgreSQL Queries

1. Paste your PostgreSQL query into the input editor
2. Select PostgreSQL as the SQL dialect for accurate syntax recognition
3. Click Format to apply PostgreSQL-aware indentation and structure
4. Review the output — CTEs, window functions, and subqueries are properly nested
5. Copy the formatted query for your code, migration files, or database documentation

Why Use PinusX PostgreSQL Formatter?

PinusX formats your PostgreSQL queries with 100% client-side processing. Your queries never leave your browser — this is critical because PostgreSQL queries often contain schema details, table structures, business logic, and sometimes even inline data that reveals proprietary information. In November 2025, jsonformatter.org leaked over 80,000 user credentials from server-side processing. PinusX eliminates this risk by running the formatter locally in your browser tab. Format your production queries, RLS policies, migration scripts, and analytical queries with confidence that your database structure stays private.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it handle PostgreSQL-specific operators?

Yes. The formatter recognizes PostgreSQL-specific operators including JSONB operators (->>, ->, @>, ?), array operators (ANY, ALL, @>), pattern matching (SIMILAR TO, ~), and type casting (::). These operators are preserved and formatted correctly without being misinterpreted as syntax errors.

How does it format CTEs (WITH clauses)?

CTEs are formatted with each CTE definition on a separate block, indented within the WITH clause. Multiple CTEs are clearly separated. Recursive CTEs (WITH RECURSIVE) are also handled with proper indentation of the base case and recursive term. This makes complex multi-CTE queries easy to follow.

Can it format PL/pgSQL functions?

Yes. PL/pgSQL blocks (CREATE FUNCTION with $ body) are formatted with proper indentation for DECLARE, BEGIN, EXCEPTION, and END blocks. IF/ELSE, LOOP, FOR, and WHILE control structures are nested correctly. Variable declarations and SQL statements within the function body are also formatted.

Does it handle window functions?

Yes. Window function syntax (OVER with PARTITION BY, ORDER BY, and frame clauses like ROWS BETWEEN) is formatted with clear structure. Named windows (WINDOW w AS ...) are also handled. The PARTITION BY and ORDER BY within OVER are indented to distinguish them from outer query clauses.

Your data never leaves your browser. 100% client-side processing.