In previous articles, we explored the foundations of Flatten Array and its importance for beginners in Power Automate. This time, we’ll take a deeper dive into advanced techniques, smart combinations, and best practices that will help you handle complex data more efficiently – without adding unnecessary steps or code. 

Why Flatten Array Matters in Advanced Flows  

When working with automation at scale, data rarely comes in simple structures. Nested arrays, multiple data sources, and dynamic outputs can make your flows harder to manage. This is where Flatten Array in Power Automate becomes a powerful ally: it simplifies your data into a single, accessible list that other actions can easily process. 

Flattening data not only reduces complexity but also enhances the performance and readability of your flow. Instead of multiple loops or “Apply to each” actions, you can process data in one step, making your automation cleaner and faster. 

Smart Combinations with Flatten Array Power Automate 

Flatten Array becomes even more powerful when combined with other key actions in Power Automate. Below are some of the most effective combinations to simplify data handling and boost your automation efficiency. 

Flatten Array + Filter Array 

By flattening your data before applying a filter, you ensure that all items are evaluated correctly. 

This approach prevents missing elements that might otherwise be hidden in nested structures. It’s especially useful when filtering responses from forms, APIs, or SharePoint lists. 

Flatten Array + Select 

Once your data is flattened, you can use Select to reshape it into a more organized and readable format. This is ideal for preparing data for reporting, exporting to Excel, or sending structured emails. 

Flatten Array + Parse JSON 

Complex API responses often include nested objects. Flattening them before parsing ensures that Parse JSON interprets the structure correctly. This combination avoids unnecessary iterations and improves data accuracy. 

Best Practices for Using Flatten Array 

Working with Flatten Array Power Automate requires attention to detail to avoid unexpected results. Here are some best practices you should follow: 

• Validate before flattening: Always check that the input is an array and not empty to avoid runtime errors.
• Use intermediate variables: Assign flattened data to a variable for debugging or reuse.
• Document your logic: Complex flows are better understood with comments on the use of Flatten Array.
• Combine with logical expressions: Enhance efficiency by pairing Flatten Array with expressions like length(), contains(), or union() to handle data dynamically.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 

Even experienced Power Automate users can make mistakes when using Flatten Array. Here are some to watch out for: 

• Flattening non-array data: Always verify your source. If the input isn’t an array, the expression will fail.
• Duplicated results: If your source already contains flattened data, running Flatten Array again may create duplicates.
• Performance issues: Flattening very large arrays without filtering first can slow down your flow.

Flatten Array in Power Automate is more than just a technical function — it’s a strategy for building smarter, cleaner, and more scalable flows. By mastering it, you’ll not only simplify your automations but also unlock new ways to process and transform data efficiently. 

Stay Connected with Us 

At Pevaar, we’re passionate about helping you create better, faster, and smarter automations. Visit our website to explore more resources, tutorials, and success stories from real Power Automate users. Don’t forget to check out our other blog articles and contact our team if you’d like personalized guidance for  your automation projects — we’d love to hear from you!