A Beginner’s Guide to n8n
- miza42
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
Automation is no longer something only developers do. With tools like n8n, anyone, from beginners to tech professionals, can build workflows that save time, reduce manual tasks, and connect different apps together. If you’ve heard about n8n but aren’t sure where to start, this guide is perfect for you. Let’s walk through the basics in a simple, friendly way.
What is n8n?
n8n (pronounced “n-eight-n”) is an open-source automation tool that lets you connect apps and create workflows without needing to know advanced programming.
You can use it to automate emails, organize spreadsheets, move data between apps, and more.
Why People Love n8n
Here’s why n8n is quickly becoming a favorite:
Open-source – free to use and customizable
Connects 400+ apps
Drag-and-drop interface
Self-host or use the cloud version
Endless flexibility thanks to code nodes and API support
If you’re looking for power and simplicity, n8n gives you both.
How to Start Using n8n
Option 1: Use n8n Cloud (easiest for beginners)
No installation required. Just sign up and start building workflows instantly.
Option 2: Self-host n8n
If you want more control, you can install n8n locally or on a server.
Common installation methods:
Desktop app
Docker
Node.js
Cloud VMs (like AWS, DigitalOcean, Render)
If you're a beginner, n8n Cloud is the fastest way to learn.
Your First Workflow in n8n
Let’s build a simple example: Send yourself an email.
Step 1: Open n8n and create a new workflow
Log in to your n8n instance.
Click New Workflow (or +) and give it a name (e.g., Send Test Email).
Step 2: Confirm the Start node is present
Most n8n canvases include a Start node by default. If not, add it from the node menu.
The Start node is the entry point and will fire when you press Execute Workflow.
Step 3: Add a Send Email node
Click the + to add a node.
Search for Send Email (or SMTP / Email depending on available nodes).
Drag it onto the canvas and connect the Start node output to the Send Email node input.
Step 4: Configure email credentials
In the Send Email node, click Credentials → Create new.
Fill SMTP details (common options):
Host (e.g., smtp.gmail.com for Gmail SMTP)
Port (587 for TLS or 465 for SSL)
Secure / TLS: yes/no depending on port
Username: your email address
Password: app password or account password (Gmail often requires an app password or OAuth)
Alternatively use OAuth credentials if n8n supports Gmail OAuth for you — that’s more secure.
Step 5: Set message fields
To: recipient email (e.g., someone@example.com)
From: your configured sender (some SMTP servers enforce this)
Subject: Test from n8n (or your subject)
Text: the plain text body (e.g., Hello — this is a test email from my n8n workflow.)
Step 6: Save node and workflow
Click Save on the node and then Save the workflow (top right).
(Your screenshot shows “Workflow not saved!” — make sure to save).
Step 7: Test by executing
Click Execute Workflow (or Play / Run). The Start node will run and pass an item to the Send Email node.
Watch node status: the Send Email node should show a green check if it succeeded.
Popular Things You Can Automate with n8n
Here are some simple beginner-friendly ideas:
Send a Slack or email alert when someone fills out a form
Add new email subscribers to a Google Sheet
Auto-post content to social media
Back up files to Google Drive
Send yourself daily reports
Once you understand the basics, the possibilities become endless.
Tips for Beginners
Start with simple workflows
Explore nodes like HTTP Request, Set, IF, and Google Sheets
Use the built-in templates to learn faster
Don’t be afraid to try—n8n is very beginner-friendly
Final Thoughts
Getting started with n8n is easy, and even simple workflows can save you hours every week. As you learn more, you’ll be able to connect apps, automate complex tasks, and build powerful systems—all without writing heavy code.
WORKFLOW AUTOMATION MADE SIMPLE WITH N8N!
Do More With Less Effort!
Stop Wasting Hours On Repetitive Tasks.
Learn To Automate Them Now!
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