JSON is easy to exchange between systems, but compact or poorly indented JSON can be difficult to inspect. A formatter makes the structure readable while a validator helps catch syntax problems before you use the data.
When should you format JSON?
Formatting is useful when reviewing API responses, debugging configuration files, documenting examples or comparing nested objects. Minifying is useful when you need a compact representation for transfer or storage.
How to check JSON safely
- Paste the JSON into the formatter.
- Run validation or formatting.
- Read the error message if parsing fails.
- Copy the corrected result only after reviewing it.
Common JSON mistakes
Missing commas, unmatched braces, invalid quotation marks and trailing commas are common causes of parse errors. A formatter can identify that the document is invalid, but it does not know the business rules of your application.
For a quick browser workflow, use the JSON Formatter & Validator.