JSON Formatter

Format & Validate JSON

Options

Quick Reference

JSON Syntax Rules

  • Data is in key/value pairs
  • Data is separated by commas
  • Objects are enclosed in curly braces {}
  • Arrays are enclosed in square brackets []
  • Keys must be strings, enclosed in double quotes
  • No trailing commas allowed
Common JSON Structures
Object
{ "name": "John", "age": 30 }
Array
["apple", "orange", "banana"]
Nested Structure
{ "person": { "name": "John", "address": { "city": "New York", "zip": "10001" } } }

About JSON Formatter

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a widely used format for data exchange between applications, APIs, and databases. While JSON is easy for machines to process, it can be difficult for humans to read when it lacks proper formatting.

Developers, data analysts, and API testers often deal with unformatted JSON responses that are hard to interpret. Our formatter takes raw JSON input and presents it in a well-structured, indented format, making it easier to analyze and troubleshoot. It also detects syntax errors, ensuring the data remains valid before being used in an application.

Core Capabilities

  • Automatic Formatting: Converts compact or minified JSON into a structured, indented format for easy readability.
  • Error Detection: Identifies syntax issues and missing brackets to prevent processing errors.
  • Minification Support: Compresses formatted JSON by removing unnecessary spaces and line breaks for efficient data transmission.
  • Validation Checks: Ensures the JSON structure is correct and follows proper syntax rules.
  • Cross-Platform Accessibility: Works on desktops, tablets, and mobile devices without software installation.

Common Use Cases

Reading and Debugging JSON Responses

APIs often return JSON data in a single line without indentation. This makes it difficult to read and extract relevant information. A formatter structures the data, allowing developers to navigate key-value pairs effortlessly.

Example
Input
{"name":"Alice","age":25,"city":"New York"}
Formatted Output
{ "name": "Alice", "age": 25, "city": "New York" }

Validating JSON Structure Before Use

JSON files must follow strict syntax rules, including correct placement of brackets and commas. A formatter highlights errors, ensuring that the JSON is valid before it is used in an application.

Example of an Invalid JSON
{ "name": "Alice", "age": 25, "city": "New York", // Trailing comma is invalid }

The formatter will detect the extra comma and alert you to correct it.

Minifying JSON for Efficient Data Transmission

Formatted JSON is useful for readability, but when transferring data over a network, compacting it reduces file size. A formatter can remove unnecessary spaces and line breaks without altering the content.

Editing and Testing JSON Data

Developers often modify JSON files before sending requests to APIs or embedding them in applications. A formatter provides a clean workspace for editing and verifying changes before implementation.

Troubleshooting & Best Practices

Check for Missing Brackets

Ensure all opening and closing brackets {} and [] are correctly placed.

Remove Trailing Commas

JSON does not allow a comma after the last key-value pair in an object.

Validate Before Minifying

Minified JSON should first be validated to prevent errors in transmission.

Use UTF-8 Encoding

Some special characters may cause formatting issues if not properly encoded.

Compare Multiple JSON Files

If working with large datasets, use a comparison tool to check for differences between files.