Sub-workflows are not scary at all but it will get scary when you have no idea how to implement them, but most of the cases, do I really need it. find it here. Full tutorial + depth explanation How to use Sub-Workflow in n8n**
What are sub-workflows?**
-
Reusable workflows that can be called from other workflows
-
Built once, used multiple times across different automations
-
Think of them as components you can plug into any workflow
When to actually use them:
-
Reusing the same logic across multiple workflows (validation, API calls, formatting)
-
Breaking down massive workflows (50+ nodes) to avoid memory issues
-
Isolating logic for easier testing and debugging
-
Handling human-in-loop scenarios like approvals
When NOT to use them:
-
Simple branching (just use IF node instead)
-
Batch processing within same workflow (Loop Over Items works better)
-
One-off logic you’ll never reuse
Key technical points:
-
Sub-workflow executions don’t count toward your n8n Cloud quota
-
Parent workflow pauses until child completes by default
-
Data flows: parent sends → child processes → returns to parent
-
Output from sub-workflow’s LAST node becomes parent’s input data
-
Access returned data with
{{ $json.field }}(no nesting needed)
Pro tip: Select existing nodes → right-click → “Create sub-workflow” (or Alt+X) to quickly convert node groups into reusable sub-workflows
Tutorial includes: Complete address verification system example with Google Sheets showing real-world implementation