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How to Preserve SharePoint JSON Formatting During Inline Editing

John Wilson Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to maintain custom graphical JSON column formatting when editing a SharePoint list inline.

Product: Microsoft SharePoint
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Editing a SharePoint list column inline that has custom JSON graphical formatting applied.
Observed behavior: The custom JSON formatting, such as circular graphics, disappears and is replaced by standard input controls when the column is made editable inline.

Before you start

Ensure you have at least 'Design' or 'Full Control' permissions on the SharePoint list to access and modify the column formatting JSON code.

Solution 1Recommended

Customize JSON to Handle Display and Edit States

Modify the column's JSON schema to explicitly define how elements should render during the inline editing state.

By default, SharePoint's inline editing feature replaces custom-rendered JSON elements with standard edit controls to facilitate data entry. If elements like custom circular graphics are not supported by the edit control, they will disappear. You must customize the JSON schema to correctly handle both the display and edit states.

Access Column Settings

Navigate to your SharePoint list, click the header of the formatted column, select 'Column settings', and choose 'Format this column'.

Switch to Advanced Mode

At the bottom of the formatting pane, click on 'Advanced mode' to view the raw JSON code.

Update Edit State Logic

Review the JSON code and implement state-based rendering logic. Ensure that complex graphical elements are configured to either hide gracefully or revert to supported input fields during the edit state.

Save and Test

Click the 'Save' button, return to the list, and trigger inline editing to confirm that the formatting transition behaves correctly.

Seek Advanced Assistance: For highly complex JSON formatting scenarios, it is recommended to copy your column schema and post your specific issue in the Microsoft Q&A forums using the SharePoint tag.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my custom graphic disappear during SharePoint inline editing?

SharePoint temporarily replaces custom JSON elements with standard input controls during inline editing so users can input data. If the JSON is not coded to define how the edit state should look, custom graphics will be hidden.

Can I keep the exact same graphical formatting while editing the column inline?

Not always. Some custom-rendered elements are not supported within the active edit control. You typically need to use JSON to display a simpler text input or standard dropdown specifically for the edit phase.

Where can I find examples of SharePoint JSON column formatting?

You can find comprehensive JSON formatting examples and templates in the official Microsoft SharePoint documentation or by engaging with the community on Microsoft Q&A.

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