How to Open a JSON File? A Complete Guide on Creating and Reading JSON

JSON stands for JavaScript Object Notation, a text-based format for storing and exchanging structured information. Its syntax uses key-value pairs, keeping data organized and human-readable.

Many services rely on JSON because it packs data efficiently without adding extra overhead. These traits make JSON a fundamental principle of modern data formats, especially in web services and APIs. 

Let’s now see why this format has become such a popular choice:

• Lightweight Structure: JSON files contain plain text without heavy markup.
• Broad Compatibility: Most programming languages include libraries that can handle JSON data effortlessly.
• Readable Layout: Even without specialized software, the contents are clear enough to interpret in a basic text editor.

This article will show how to open a JSON file format and create and read it across different platforms. 

What Does a JSON File Look Like?

A JSON file typically arranges data into objects and arrays, using a clear set of symbols to keep everything organized. Each piece of data has a specific place, making JSON easy for programs to parse and for people to read. 

Here are the fundamental elements you can expect in a JSON file format :

• Curly Braces for Objects: Objects are enclosed in { }. Each object can contain multiple key-value pairs.
• Square Brackets for Arrays: Arrays use [ ]. This structure groups related items in a list-like format.
• Key-Value Pairs: Keys and values are wrapped in double quotes (e.g., "name": "Aarti"). If there are multiple pairs, they’re separated by commas.
• Core Data Types: Strings, numbers, booleans (true or false), null, arrays, and nested objects can appear within a JSON document.

Below is a short example of properly formatted JSON without extra commas or mismatched braces:

{
  "name": "Aarti",
  "age": 28,
  "favorites": {
    "color": "Blue",
    "food": "Pasta"
  },
  "hobbies": ["Reading", "Cycling", "Music"]
}

How to Open a JSON File? Main Methods Discussed 

Accessing a JSON file is straightforward once you pick a strategy that fits your needs. Some people prefer fast text editors for quick viewing, while others lean on specialized tools that handle large files and complex structures. Mobile apps also come in handy if you want to stay flexible and work on the go. 

Now, let’s discuss all the major methods to open a JSON file now. 

1. How to Open a JSON file in Windows?

Windows offers built-in editors and third-party tools that handle JSON files easily. 

Here are some popular options:

A) Notepad / WordPad

1. Right-click your JSON file and choose “Open with.”
2. Pick either Notepad or WordPad from the list.
3. Make changes if needed, then save.

B) Notepad++

1. Download and install Notepad++ from its official website.
2. Launch Notepad++, then open the “File” menu.
3. Select “Open” and locate your JSON file.
4. Review or edit the file with syntax highlighting turned on by default.

C) File Viewer Plus

1. Install File Viewer Plus, which supports multiple file formats.
2. Open the application and click “File,” then “Open”.
3. Choose your JSON file to view and edit.

D) Altova XMLSpy

1. Obtain a license or use the free trial from the Altova website.
2. Start XMLSpy and go to “File” → “Open”.
3. Pick your JSON file. The software provides advanced features such as graphical views and validation.

2. How to Open a JSON file in macOS?

macOS users can rely on built-in editors or download more feature-rich apps. 

Here are the main choices:

A) Apple TextEdit

1. Find your JSON file in Finder and right-click it.
2. Select “Open With”, then pick TextEdit.
3. TextEdit displays the JSON as plain text, allowing you to make minor edits.

B) BBEdit

1. Install BBEdit from the developer’s site.
2. Launch BBEdit and select “File”, then “Open”.
3. Choose your JSON file format and use BBEdit’s search, replace, and coding features to work on the data.

C) MacVim

1. Download MacVim (compatible with older macOS versions before 10.9).
2. Open the Terminal and type mvim /path/to/your/file.json or use the MacVim icon.
3. Edit or view the file directly using Vim commands in a GUI environment.

3. How to Open a JSON file in Linux?

Linux users typically prefer command-line editors, but GUI solutions exist as well. 

These are the main tools:

A) Vim

1. Open a terminal window.
2. Type vim /path/to/your/file.json.
3. Press i to switch to insert mode for editing. 
4. When done, press Esc and type :wq to save and exit.

B) Pico

1. In your terminal, type pico /path/to/your/file.json.
2. Modify the contents as needed, then press Ctrl+O to save.
3. Exit with Ctrl+X.

C) GNU Emacs

1. In your terminal, type emacs /path/to/your/file.json.
2. Edit the data with Emacs’ commands and shortcuts.
3. Save by pressing Ctrl+X Ctrl+S; exit with Ctrl+X Ctrl+C.

D) GitHub Atom (Cross-Platform)

1. Install Atom on your Linux system.
2. Launch it, then click “File” → “Open File”.
3. Pick your JSON file for a user-friendly interface with optional packages for linting or formatting.

Also Read: Mastering JQ: A Comprehensive Tutorial

4. How to Open a JSON file in Multi-platform IDEs?

If you prefer a robust development environment, consider these IDEs:

A) Visual Studio Code

1. Download and install VS Code.
2. Open the program and click “File”, then “Open File”.
3. Select the JSON file format, and VS Code will highlight JSON syntax by default.

B) Sublime Text

1. Install Sublime Text from the official site.
2. Run the editor, then use “File” → “Open…” to locate your JSON.
3. Take advantage of features like multiple cursors and quick search for an efficient workflow.

C) Visual Studio (Windows)

1. Install Visual Studio from Microsoft’s website.
2. Launch it and click “File” → “Open” → “File”.
3. Find your JSON file, and Visual Studio shows the data with syntax highlighting.

Also Read: Choosing the Best IDE for Your Python Development Needs

5. How to Open a JSON File in Chrome and Firefox?

Chrome and Firefox can display JSON data without installing extra software, which makes them perfect for reviewing file contents quickly. Both browsers also support extensions that add formatting and collapsible trees to improve your reading experience.

Steps to Open JSON File in Chrome

Step 1: Start with the browser

Launch Google Chrome on your system.

Step 2: Choose a method:

• Drag-and-Drop: Click and hold the JSON file in your file explorer, then drop it into an open Chrome tab.
• Open Command: Press Ctrl+O (Windows) or Cmd+O (Mac). A file picker appears. Choose the JSON file format and confirm.

Step 3: View the file

Chrome automatically shows the data, although it may appear in a plain text format.

Step 4: Use an extension (optional):

• Search the Chrome Web Store for “JSON Formatter” or “JSONView”.
• Click Add to Chrome, then confirm.
• Open the JSON file again, and the extension presents a structured, collapsible layout.

Steps to Open a JSON File in Firefox

Step 1: Open Firefox

Double-click the Firefox icon or select it from your application menu.

Step 2: Load the file

• Drag-and-Drop: Drag the JSON file directly into a new Firefox tab.
• Keyboard Shortcut: Press Ctrl+O (Windows) or Cmd+O (Mac) to open the file picker, then select your JSON file.

Step 3: Check the display

Firefox shows JSON data in a tree view by default, so you can expand and collapse nested items.

Step 4: Install a JSON extension (optional):

• Look for “JSONView” or “JSON Lite” in the Firefox Add-ons section.
• Select Add to Firefox, then grant any required permissions.
• Reopen your JSON file for enhanced readability, including line numbers and clear formatting.

If your JSON file is very large, both browsers may slow down or freeze. Consider a specialized tool or code editor that handles large data more efficiently in that case.

6. How to Open a JSON File in Excel?

Excel can convert JSON data into rows and columns for a familiar spreadsheet view. This approach works best when the JSON file format is modest in size, and you want to analyze or visualize portions of the data alongside Excel’s other features.

Here are the simple steps you need to follow to open a JSON file in Excel:

1. Import the JSON File

To open a JSON file in Excel, navigate to the Data tab in the top menu. Click on Get Data > From File > From JSON. Browse and select your JSON file, then click Import.

2. Work with Power Query Editor
Excel will automatically launch the Power Query Editor, a powerful tool used to transform and structure data. Initially, your JSON content may appear complex—don’t worry, a few more steps will simplify it.

3. Convert JSON to Table Format
In the Power Query Editor, click on Into Table in the top-left corner. Then, locate the double-arrow icon (⬍) at the top of the column containing nested lists or records. Click it and choose Expand to New Rows.

4. Remove Prefix and Expand Further
Click the double-arrow icon again, uncheck the option Use original column name as prefix, and click OK. Continue expanding all nested fields until no columns display "List" or "Record". Once fully expanded, click Close & Load to bring your structured table into Excel.

If you notice Excel slowing down or freezing, consider tools that handle larger files more efficiently. Otherwise, for moderate datasets, Excel’s built-in JSON import offers a straightforward way to work with data in a grid layout.

7. How to Open a JSON File Using a Gigasheet?

Gigasheet is a cloud-based platform designed for working with extensive datasets. It can handle large JSON files format that might overwhelm standard editors.

Here are the straightforward steps to open a JSON file in Gigasheet:

1. Sign Up for Gigasheet through its website and log in to your new account.
2. Click “+ New” in the top-left corner to start importing your data.
3. Select “Upload File” if the JSON is on your machine; otherwise, pick a connected cloud source.
4. Pick the JSON File you want to open, then confirm to begin the upload.
5. Wait for Processing, as Gigasheet structures the data into a spreadsheet-like view.
6. Explore and Edit within Gigasheet’s interface. You can apply filters or basic transformations directly in the browser.
7. Upgrade (optional) if you need to edit beyond the free tier’s row limit or perform more advanced operations.

Once your file is loaded, you can examine thousands of lines of JSON without straining local tools or slowing down your computer.

8. How to Open a JSON File on iOS?

On iPhones or iPads, you can handle JSON files directly without needing a dedicated code editor. The Shortcuts app provides ready-made or custom actions that let you view and edit JSON on your device.

Here are the simple steps you need to follow:

1. Install Apple Shortcuts from the App Store if it’s not already on your device.
2. Obtain a JSON Viewer Shortcut by searching online for a shortcut named “JSON Viewer” or “JSON File Editor”. Tap “Get Shortcut” to add it to your library.
3. Open the Files App and locate the JSON file stored on iCloud Drive or locally.
4. Tap and Hold your JSON file, then select “Share”.
5. Choose the Shortcut you installed, such as “JSON Viewer” or “JSON File Editor”.
6. Wait for the Shortcut to parse the data. You should see a neatly formatted structure, often with collapsible sections.
7. Make Any Required Edits (if you have an editing shortcut) and tap “Done” or “Save”.
8. Export or Store the Updated File back to the Files app or another location if you need to share or archive it.

9. How to Open a JSON File on Android?

Android devices can read JSON files through simple apps that show file contents in a text format. Specialized tools also allow editing and formatting, making it possible to manage data even when you’re away from a computer.

You can follow these steps to open a JSON file in Android:

1. Install a File Opener App such as “File Opener for Android” or “File Viewer for Android” from the Play Store.

2. Launch the App once installed and look for an “Open” or “Browse” option.

3. Find Your JSON File in internal storage or on an external SD card, depending on where you saved it.

4. Tap the JSON File to load it into the app’s viewer. You should see the contents in readable text form.

5. Edit (If Supported) by using any built-in editing feature. Some apps may let you tweak values or add new entries.

6. Save or Export the updated file if you’ve made any changes. You can simply exit the app if you only need to review the file.

How to Read a JSON File Programmatically? 

Reading a JSON file in your code means converting that text into objects or data structures that a program can work with directly. This approach is common in everything from web development to data analysis. 

Most programming languages have built-in or external libraries to parse JSON, so the essential steps usually involve loading the file and sending it to a parsing function.

Let’s explore the methods now.

How to Read a JSON File With Python? Step-by-step Tutorial

Python includes a built-in module that quickly transforms JSON files into Python objects. This makes tasks such as data analysis or API interactions more convenient, especially when filtering or manipulating the contents.

Here are the steps you need to follow to open a JSON file in Python:

Step 1: Import the json Module
Add import json at the top of your Python script. This module provides functions for loading, parsing, and writing JSON data.

Step 2: Open the JSON File
Use Python’s open() function to access your file. It’s a good idea to use a with statement, which manages file closing automatically:

with open('data.json', 'r') as file:
    # file operations happen here

Step 3: Load the File into a Python Object

Inside the with block, call json.load(file) to convert JSON into a dictionary or list, depending on the structure:

with open('data.json', 'r') as file:
    data = json.load(file)

After this, data behaves like a regular Python data structure.

Step 4: Inspect or Print the Results

You can check the contents of data to ensure it loaded properly:

print(data)

Try printing specific keys if you know what’s inside:

print(data['name'])
print(data['age'])

Step 5: Modify or Process the Data

If you plan to update values or run calculations, treat data just like any other dictionary or list. For instance, you can add a new key:

data['newKey'] = 'newValue'

Step 6: Save Changes (Optional)

To store updates back into a JSON file, open a file in write mode and use json.dump():

with open('data.json', 'w') as file:
    json.dump(data, file, indent=2)

The indent=2 argument makes the output more readable.

If you encounter errors, double-check that the JSON is correctly formatted and that Python has the right permissions to access the file.

Also Read: Python JSON Encoding and Decoding

How to Read a JSON File With Javascript? 

JavaScript offers quick ways to load JSON data, whether you’re building a browser-based app or running scripts on the server. This flexibility makes JSON handling part of the core workflow in many JavaScript projects.

Here are the main ways to read a JSON file with JS:

Way 1: Reading JSON in the Browser (Using fetch())

• Create or obtain a JSON file stored online or locally in your project.
• Write a script that fetches the file and parses it:

fetch('path/to/your/file.json')
  .then(response => response.json())
  .then(data => {
    console.log(data);
    // You can now access data.name, data.age, or any other properties
  })
  .catch(error => console.error('Error:', error));

• The fetch() call retrieves your file, and response.json() transforms it into an object or array.
• If the JSON file is large, consider monitoring how your app handles the response to avoid slowdowns.

Way 2: Reading JSON in Node.js (Using require())

• Keep the JSON file in the same directory or specify the correct path in your Node.js project.
• Simply require() it in your script:

const data = require('./file.json');
console.log(data);

• The file content is immediately converted into a JavaScript object, which you can work with just like any other variable.
• If you want more control over reading or writing JSON, you can use the built-in fs module:

const fs = require('fs');

fs.readFile('./file.json', 'utf8', (err, jsonString) => {
  if (err) {
    console.error('Error reading file:', err);
    return;
  }
  try {
    const data = JSON.parse(jsonString);
    console.log(data);
  } catch (parseErr) {
    console.error('Error parsing JSON:', parseErr);
  }
});

• This method lets you handle errors in file access or JSON parsing more explicitly.

Once the file is parsed, JavaScript gives you direct access to each key and value. You can modify the data, filter specific entries, or send the results to other parts of your program.

Also Read: Python JSON – How to Convert a String to JSON

How to Create a JSON File? Step-by-step Guide

Setting up a JSON file is easy when you take the right approach from the start. As long as you adhere to proper syntax and formatting, you can rely on any text editor, online tool, or programming environment.

Here are the steps you need to follow to create a JSON File:

Step 1: Open a Text Editor
Pick a program such as Notepad, TextEdit, or Visual Studio Code. These editors allow you to enter plain text without formatting artifacts.

Step 2: Start a New Document
Go to “File” → “New” or simply press the corresponding keyboard shortcut. You’ll see a blank canvas where you can place your JSON data.

Step 3: Include Proper Syntax
Use curly braces { } to define objects and square brackets [ ] to define arrays. Inside objects, each key must be in double quotes, followed by a colon, then the value:

{
  "title": "MyDocument",
  "version": 1.0,
  "tags": ["example", "sample"]
}

Step 4: Save with a .json Extension
Choose “Save As” and end your file name with .json. Make sure the “Save as type” is set to “All Files” if the editor defaults to .txt.

Step 5: Validate Your File
If you want to confirm that your file is valid, open it in an online checker like JSONLint or use a code editor with built-in JSON validation. This step helps catch missing commas or unbalanced braces.

Step 6: (Optional) Use an Online JSON Editor
If you prefer a browser-based method, search for “Online JSON Editor”. These sites let you paste or write your data, then format and validate it without installing extra software.

You can add more fields or nested objects whenever you like, but ensure you follow the same structure for each new element. Proper formatting and double-checking for small typos go a long way toward keeping your file ready for any program that uses JSON.

Also Read: Difference between Notepad and WordPad

Why Can JSON Files Sometimes Be Difficult to Work With? Common Problems and Challenges

Although JSON simplifies data storage and transfer, it has certain quirks that can cause frustration. The structure is strict, and large files can overwhelm basic programs or even cause them to freeze.

Below are the most common challenges:

• Strict Syntax Rules: A single missing comma or mismatched brace can invalidate the entire file, leaving you with parsing errors or broken applications.
• Hierarchical Format: JSON often contains multiple nested levels. This makes reviewing or modifying apps that expect simple row-and-column data trickier.
• Limited Human Readability for Complex Data: Although JSON is more readable than many alternatives, deeply nested objects can still be difficult to decipher.
• Large File Sizes: Huge datasets may exceed the limits of standard editors or spreadsheets, leading to sluggish performance or crashes.

How Can You Validate and Fix JSON Errors?

Working with JSON files often involves dealing with errors that can disrupt workflows. Identifying and resolving these issues ensures smoother operations and accurate data handling.

Below are common ways to fix the challenges of working with JSON: 

• Use online JSON validators like JSONLint to detect syntax errors.
• Verify that all keys are enclosed in double quotes.
• Ensure commas separate all key-value pairs except the last one.
• Count and match all opening and closing brackets or braces.
• Remove any trailing commas from objects or arrays.

Correcting errors manually is efficient for small files. For larger files, rely on JSON formatting tools for precision.

Example of a Malformed JSON File and Corrected Version

Understanding the difference between incorrect and corrected JSON structures helps you resolve errors effectively.

Malformed JSON:

{
    "name": "Garima"
    "age": 25,
    "skills": ["Python", "Data Analysis",]
}

Corrected JSON:

{
    "name": "Garima",
    "age": 25,
    "skills": ["Python", "Data Analysis"]
}

In this example, a missing comma, an extra trailing comma, and unmatched brackets caused errors.

While manually correcting JSON errors is helpful, tools can streamline the process. Learn about options that enhance accuracy and save time.

Tools for Validating and Formatting JSON

Several tools simplify error detection and correction in JSON files. Below are some popular options:

Using these tools enhances accuracy and saves time during debugging.

Next, discover practical applications of JSON files in various fields and tasks.

Where Is JSON Used in Real Life?

JSON files have extensive applications in various fields, making them indispensable for modern computing. Their simplicity and flexibility allow you to use them in diverse tasks beyond mere data exchange.

Below are key areas where JSON files play a crucial role:

1. Data Storage in Modern Databases

JSON is commonly used in databases for storing structured and unstructured data. Its lightweight format suits modern data systems.

• MongoDB and other NoSQL databases rely on JSON-like formats for data storage.
• JSON enables dynamic schemas, allowing flexibility when managing evolving data structures.
• It supports hierarchical data, making it suitable for storing complex relationships.

After understanding how JSON enhances data storage, move on to its role in application configuration.

2. Configuration Files for Applications

Developers frequently use JSON files to manage configuration settings. This makes applications easier to maintain and update.

• Applications like Node.js and React use JSON for storing environment configurations.
• JSON files handle dependencies in projects using package managers like npm.
• The format ensures settings are organized and easily editable.

Once you've explored configuration files, the next area to examine is how JSON supports notifications and state management.

3. Application Notifications and Web State Management

JSON is crucial for managing notifications and tracking application states. It simplifies the exchange of lightweight data between systems.

• Web applications use JSON for storing and transferring notification data.
• JSON helps maintain real-time updates in applications through APIs.
• Frameworks like Redux in JavaScript manage web state using JSON objects.

The practical uses of JSON files highlight their adaptability and efficiency. Understanding their applications helps you integrate them into diverse workflows.

How Does JSON Compare to XML?

JSON files are smaller in size and easier to parse, making them ideal for resource-constrained environments. They use fewer characters, reducing file size significantly.

• JSON structures are simpler and require less effort to understand compared to XML.
• JSON does not require opening and closing tags like XML, which simplifies data representation.
• Many modern programming languages offer built-in support for JSON, streamlining integration.

The ability to open and create a JSON file effortlessly adds to its appeal. Its straightforward syntax makes it accessible to both technical and non-technical users.

How to Keep JSON Files Secure?

JSON files can store sensitive information that may be compromised if not handled properly. The format is straightforward to read, which is helpful for many tasks but also highlights the importance of safety measures.

Below are key practices for protecting your JSON data:

• Validate Input: Always check incoming data for unexpected structures or malicious content before processing, especially when it originates from user-generated sources.
• Secure Parsing: Functions like JSON.parse() in JavaScript or json.load() in Python are reliable, while methods that execute raw strings (such as eval) may expose systems to injection attacks.
• Encryption and Access Control: If a file holds confidential details, store it in a secure location, use encryption where possible, and limit file access to authorized users or processes.
• Sanitize Error Logs: In the event of a failure or exception, avoid logging entire JSON objects that might contain personal or proprietary information. Use sanitized logs instead.

How Can upGrad Help You Learn JSON?

upGrad offers a powerful way to enhance your skills and knowledge in JSON and related fields. Whether you are starting or looking to refine your understanding, upGrad provides comprehensive learning resources tailored to your needs. 

The following courses from upGrad can help you master JSON and its applications:

• Python Programming Bootcamp
• Advanced Certificate in Machine Learning and Deep Learning
• Data Science Bootcamp with AI

To further accelerate your career journey, upGrad offers a free one-on-one career counseling session. You can also visit your nearest upGrad offline center for personalized guidance.

Related blogs you might like:

• package.json vs package-lock.json: Major Differences
• Introduction to Package JSON Scripts in Node.js

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