[Content request]: Add FAQ: How do I prevent empty Adaptive Cards when an array property is empty? #64
Description
Issue type
Update to existing content
Details
FAQ: How do I prevent empty Adaptive Cards when an array property is empty?
Problem
Adaptive Cards render blank when the array (e.g., recommendations) in the API response is empty.
Example API Response
JSON{ "llmAnswer": "", "recommendations": [], "llmFollowUpMessage": ""}Show more lines
Cause
recommendations array has no items.
Template lacks conditional logic for empty arrays.
Solution
Bind to the correct array property:
JSON"data_path": "$.recommendations"Show more lines
Iterate over objects only when data exists:
JSON{ "type": "ColumnSet", "$data": "${$root}", "$when": "${title != null && title != ''}"}
Add fallback text for empty arrays:
JSON{ "type": "TextBlock", "text": "No recommendations available", "$when": "${$root.length == 0}"}
Best Practice
Always validate data_path and include $when conditions for empty arrays to avoid blank cards.
Doc can be updated:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365-copilot/extensibility/api-plugin-adaptive-cards
Subject matter expert
Laura Graham
Priority
P3 - The request is medium priority and is not blocking.
Target publish date
No response
Approximate size of the work item
Small - The request will take one day to complete.
Additional details
No response