A malformed XML record can prevent a guide document from being read. The parser’s line and column are useful starting points, but the cause can begin earlier, such as an unclosed element or quote. Preserve the original and inspect the surrounding structure before deleting the reported record.
Well-formedness is different from XMLTV meaning. Fixing syntax allows a document to be parsed; it does not establish correct channel relationships, dates or programme descriptions. Keep those later checks separate.
Read the error in context
An unexpected closing tag can reflect an earlier missing opening tag. An invalid character report can involve improper representation of an ampersand in text. A truncated download can leave the final element unfinished even though the earlier records are valid.
Do not assume that deleting the last visible line repairs the source. That can hide evidence of an incomplete transfer. Compare the expected document and actual response before making a permanent local correction.
Investigate a focused region
A document can expose another error after the first is fixed. That does not mean the repair caused every later problem. Work through the actual findings while retaining a clear change record, rather than making broad transformations that obscure which edit mattered.
- Save the exact parser message and an untouched private original.
- Identify the reported location and inspect enough preceding structure to understand it.
- Distinguish a syntax fault from an unexpected response type or truncation.
- Make a minimal correction only when the intended structure is known.
- Parse the duplicate again, then verify relevant XMLTV relationships.
Prefer source correction over an undocumented fork
If a maintained upstream guide is malformed, report the relevant sanitized structure and exact error to its maintainer. A local workaround can be temporary, but it should not silently become the permanent source without an understood maintenance plan.
Private account references can appear inside XML attributes or resource fields. Avoid uploading the full guide to a public validator solely because the error is difficult to read. A local parser or harmless minimal reproduction can answer many structural questions without another recipient.
A good report includes the parser or application name, document type, location, non-secret error and a focused fictionalized excerpt where useful. The desired outcome is a well-formed intended document, followed by separate validation of actual guide coverage and identity. A successful parse is a useful milestone, not proof that the schedule or service arrangement is correct.
Useful answers
Is the reported line always where the original mistake began?
No. A missing delimiter or element earlier can cause a later error.
Does well-formed XML prove valid XMLTV relationships?
No. Syntax and guide semantics are separate checks.
Should the entire private guide be posted to a public validator?
Prefer a suitable local check or sanitized minimal example.