# Xano Response

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## **Returning an Object 'As Self':**

{% hint style="warning" %}
If sending Notifications to Xano Users, the GET ALL Endpoint for Users must send the response 'As Self' or notifications will not be received.
{% endhint %}

When you select to return an object 'As Self' in Xano, you're opting for a streamlined approach that provides a single, comprehensive object containing specific attributes. This is particularly valuable when you expect to receive detailed information about a single record or entity.

**Example Use Case:** Retrieve an in-depth user profile by querying the User ID. The response will consist of a single object encompassing all relevant User attributes.

**Implementation Steps:**

1. In the endpoint's response definition, specify desired attributes.
2. Map these attributes to corresponding fields in your data source.
3. Select 'As Self' to receive a single, detailed object.

## **Returning an Array with the Results Key:**

{% hint style="warning" %}
Must be used when setting up with External Collections.
{% endhint %}

Choosing to return data as an array with the Results Key structures your response as a consistent array of objects, even if only one record matches your query. Each object within the array represents an instance of the queried data.

**Example Use Case:** Fetch a list of products within a specific category. Regardless of the number of products, the response remains consistent, promoting seamless data management.

**Implementation Steps:**

1. Define attributes to include in the response.
2. Map attributes to respective fields in your data source.
3. Enable the "Results Key" option and assign a meaningful name (e.g., "products").

**Guidelines for Selection:**

1. **Use 'As Self' When:**
   * Detailed information about a single entity is required such as user profiles or unique records.
   * Using Notifications with Xano Collections.
2. **Use Array with Results Key When:** 
   * Handling a collection of records, be it a list of items, categories, or sets of data.
   * Using Xano Endpoints through External Collections