How can I dynamically reference the S3 uploaded file key in my N8N workflow?

Below is one approach you can take:

1. Confirm the output data:
   After your first S3 node (the one performing the upload), check its output in the “Execute Node” section. Identify the key or property that holds the filename (or file key) created by the upload operation. If that property isn’t available, you might need to adjust the settings on that node so that it returns it.

2. Reference the dynamic value correctly:
   In the second S3 node (the one for downloading the file), use an expression (by clicking the gears or using Ctrl+E) for the parameter where you need the filename. For example, if the file key is available under a property named “fileName” from your S3 upload node, your expression might look like:

   JAVASCRIPTCopied
   {{$node["S3 Upload"].json["fileName"]}}

   Replace "S3 Upload" with the actual name of your node, and "fileName" with the exact key from the output.

3. Optional – use a Set node:
   If referencing the dynamic property directly feels tricky, you can also add a Set node right after the S3 upload node to extract and rename the property you need. Then use that property in your subsequent node(s).

4. Double-check mapping in Google Sheets:
   Once you have successfully downloaded the file using the dynamic filename, ensure that you are mapping the correct property into your Google Sheets node. For example, if you need to insert the file URL or name, make sure that the Google Sheets node expression references the available property.

By confirming the node output and then making sure you use the correct expression syntax for dynamic values, you should be able to pass the filename from the upload node into subsequent nodes and use it in Google Sheets.

If the file property is not showing up, try saving your workflow and re-running the previous node; sometimes a refresh (or using a Set node to extract the field properly) clears up any referencing issues.