Developer guide

Pretty print JSON for easier reading

Pretty printing turns compact JSON into indented text so nested structures are easier to review.

The problem

It is useful for reviewing payloads, checking documentation examples, and cleaning up JSON copied from logs or browser tools.

Example

Input

{"user":{"id":7,"roles":["admin","editor"]},"ok":true}

Output

{
  "user": {
    "id": 7,
    "roles": [
      "admin",
      "editor"
    ]
  },
  "ok": true
}

How to fix it

Paste the full JSON value into the formatter.
Run Format JSON to add indentation and line breaks.
Copy the result into notes, tickets, docs, or a code review when readability matters.

Readable JSON for reviews

Pretty printing helps when you need to compare fields, review a nested error, or paste a payload into a ticket. The structure becomes easier to scan because arrays and objects get their own lines.

Keep a compact copy only when the destination requires it. For discussion, debugging, and documentation, the indented version usually saves time.

Common mistakes

Trying to pretty print invalid JSON
Including log prefixes before the JSON value
Using comments or trailing commas from JavaScript examples
Copying only part of a nested object

FAQ

What indentation does the formatter use?

It uses two spaces, a common default for readable JSON snippets.

Can I pretty print a JSON array?

Yes. Objects, arrays, strings, numbers, booleans, and null are all valid JSON values.

Is pretty-printed JSON larger?

Yes, because it includes whitespace. Use Minify when you need compact output.