Introduction to the Map Function in Make.com
The {{map}} function takes an array, lets you give each element a temporary name, and returns a new array made from whatever you compute for each element. Most real workflows follow this flow: start with an array, optionally filter it by a condition, then map each remaining item to the value or object you want. If you need a single text string (like a CSV), join the mapped results.
Make.com Map Function Examples
In the video below, you’ll see 3x examples:
1. Simple Array (module #4) – a flat list of people and destinations.
2. Join Example (module #7) – shows how you’d turn a mapped array into a single string.
3. Nested Array (module #1) – bookings with nested customer contacts, travel, and payment data.
Make.com Map Function Video Guide
Example 1: Simple Array (module #4)
A Parse JSON module that outputs an array of objects with id, name, email, and destination. Sample items include John Smith (Tenerife), Sarah Johnson (Crete), David Brown (Cyprus), and Emma Wilson (Mallorca). This gives you a predictable practice set.
Extract all emails: {{map(4.array; a; a.email)}}
Turn names into a CSV (map + join): {{join(map(4.array; a; a.name); “, “)}}
Example 2: Join Example (module #7)
A Set Variable module pre-seeded with a placeholder pattern {{join(map(; ); )}} to remind you to fill in three things: the array path, the map expression, and your delimiter. It’s a nudge that mapping gives you an array and joining gives you text.
Destination CSV from the Simple Array: {{join(map(4.array; a; a.destination); “, “)}}
Example 3: Nested Array (module #1)
A richer JSON structure: each booking has a customer (with contacts array), travel details, and payment info. Some payments are “Paid,” one is “Cancelled.” This is perfect for learning filter + map and for indexing into nested arrays.
Important – use the ‘.’ as per the video to get the child item.
Make.com Map Function – Final Steps
If you take one thing from the three examples, make it this: start with an array, optionally narrow it with a filter, then map each remaining item into the exact value or object you need. If you want text for an email, Slack message, or UI label, join the mapped array at the very end.
Start with the Simple Array to get the feel for paths, aliasing, and joining. Move to the Join Example to cement the idea that map returns arrays and join turns arrays into text. Then graduate to the Nested Array and practise filtering at the parent level before mapping into child arrays. Once that rhythm clicks, you’ll find yourself shaping API payloads, building polished labels, and producing accurate totals with only a few compact expressions.
Happy mapping!
Josh
