JSON Formatter & Validator
Got a dense API response or configuration block that is difficult to read? Paste the JSON to format it with indentation, minify it for compact output, or validate it to identify syntax problems.
Enter JSON
What Is a JSON Formatter?
A JSON formatter converts JSON data into a more readable structure by adding indentation and line breaks. This is often called formatting, pretty-printing or beautifying JSON.
JSON stands for JavaScript Object Notation. It is a text-based data format commonly used by websites, APIs, configuration files and software applications.
Compact JSON can be useful for transferring data, but it can become difficult for a person to read. Formatting makes nested objects and arrays easier to inspect.
How to Use the JSON Formatter
- Paste or type your JSON into the editor.
- Select Format JSON to beautify valid JSON with indentation.
- Select Minify JSON to remove unnecessary formatting whitespace.
- Select Validate JSON to check whether the input is valid JSON.
- Use Copy when you want to copy the current editor contents.
Formatted vs Minified JSON
Formatted JSON
Formatted JSON uses indentation and line breaks to make the structure easier for a person to read.
Minified JSON
Minified JSON represents the same data with unnecessary formatting whitespace removed.
Minification does not intentionally change the values or structure of valid JSON. It changes the text representation produced by the formatter.
What Does JSON Validation Check?
The validator uses the browser's JSON parser to determine whether the input follows JSON syntax.
Common JSON mistakes include:
- Missing commas between properties.
- Missing or extra braces and brackets.
- Using single quotes instead of JSON double quotes around strings and property names.
- Adding a trailing comma after the final property or array item.
- Including comments, which standard JSON syntax does not support.
- Using values that are valid JavaScript but not valid JSON.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my JSON invalid even when it looks correct?
Common causes include trailing commas, single quotes, missing commas, unmatched brackets or unescaped characters. The validator reports an error when the text cannot be parsed as valid JSON.
What is the difference between formatting and minifying JSON?
Formatting adds indentation and line breaks for readability. Minifying removes unnecessary whitespace while preserving the JSON data structure.
Is the JSON I paste uploaded to ToolStrive?
No. The main formatting, minifying and validation operations run within your browser session.