How to Format a List of Objects in Terraform Variable Definitions

Learn how to correctly format a list of objects in Terraform variable definitions, including examples and step-by-step guidance.
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Understanding Terraform Variable Definitions

As a Terraform user, you may encounter various challenges when defining complex variable types. One such challenge is formatting lists of objects. This can cause confusion, especially if you're new to Terraform or working with complex configurations. A common question arises: How do you properly format a list of objects in a Terraform variable definition?

In this guide, we will break down the solution to this issue, ensuring you have a clear understanding and can apply it to your own Terraform configurations.

The Problem

Consider the following example where you need to define a list that consists of objects. Your initial attempt might look something like this:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

While defining the structure of your objects may seem straightforward, inputting actual values might lead to confusion, as shown in this example:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

The problem here is that this syntax will not work as expected, and you'll likely run into errors when trying to apply your configuration.

The Solution

Understanding Lists and Objects

In Terraform, it’s important to recognize the correct format when working with lists and objects. In this case, groups is meant to be a list where each item is an object containing a single attribute group.

Correct Syntax

To properly define a list of objects in your .tfvars file, you should use the following syntax:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Breaking Down the Syntax

Braces for Objects: Each object within the list is enclosed in curly braces {}. This indicates that it is an object.

Square Brackets for Lists: The entire list of objects is enclosed in square brackets [].

Comma Separation: Each object within the list is separated by a comma ,.

Example

Suppose you wanted to pass multiple group definitions into your configuration. Your configuration might look like this:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

By following the correct format for defining lists of objects in Terraform variables, you can avoid syntax errors and ensure your configurations run smoothly. The use of proper braces and brackets is vital in structuring your code effectively.

If you're still facing issues or have questions about other Terraform configurations, feel free to reach out. Happy coding!