How to Decode JSON - Step by Step Guide

Step 1

Input Your JSON Data

Start decoding your JSON data! You have three easy options:

•

Paste JSON string: Got JSON from an API response or database? Just copy and paste it into the decoder.

•

Upload a file: Have a .json file? Click the upload button to decode it instantly. Works with .txt files too.

•

Try the sample: Click "Sample" to load example JSON and see the decoder in action.

Example: JSON String to Decode

Copy and paste this JSON string to decode:

{
  "userId": 12345,
  "username": "alex_johnson",
  "email": "alex@example.com",
  "isActive": true,
  "role": "admin"
}

Step 2

See Automatic JSON Decoding

Watch your JSON get decoded instantly! The moment you paste or type JSON data, the decoder automatically parses it and displays a readable table. Here's what happens:

•

Instant parsing: JSON strings are decoded and parsed in real-time as you type

•

Visual representation: Decoded data is displayed in easy-to-read tables with nested objects and arrays

•

Error detection: Invalid JSON is highlighted with helpful error messages showing exactly what's wrong

Decoding Single JSON Object

Input JSON (encoded string):

{
  "userId": 12345,
  "username": "alex_johnson",
  "email": "alex@example.com",
  "isActive": true,
  "role": "admin"
}

Decoded output (as table):

key	value
userId	12345
username	alex_johnson
email	alex@example.com
isActive	true
role	admin

Decoding JSON Array

Input JSON (array of objects):

[
  {
    "id": 1,
    "product": "Laptop",
    "price": 999.99,
    "inStock": true
  },
  {
    "id": 2,
    "product": "Mouse",
    "price": 29.99,
    "inStock": false
  }
]

Decoded output (column-based table):

id	product	price	inStock
1	Laptop	999.99	true
2	Mouse	29.99	false

Arrays are automatically decoded into column-based tables.

Step 3

Analyze Decoded Data

Once your JSON is decoded, you can analyze and manipulate the data with powerful features:

•

Search and filter: Use the search box to find specific values or keys in your decoded JSON

•

Edit mode: Click "Edit" to modify decoded values directly in the table

•

Maximize view: Click "Maximize" for fullscreen viewing of large decoded datasets

Step 4: Export Decoded Data

Export your decoded JSON data in various formats for further use:

•

Excel export: Click "Excel" to download decoded data as an .xlsx file

•

Share decoded data: Generate a shareable link to send decoded JSON to team members

•

Copy JSON: Copy the decoded and formatted JSON for use in your applications

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to decode JSON?

Decoding JSON means parsing a JSON string and converting it into a structured format that's easy to read and analyze. This tool decodes JSON and displays it as tables, making nested objects and arrays instantly understandable.

How do I decode a JSON string online?

Simply paste your JSON string into the decoder above. The tool automatically parses and decodes it, displaying the results in a readable table format. You can upload files, edit values, and export the decoded data.

Can this decoder handle nested JSON structures?

Yes! The decoder automatically handles complex nested JSON structures, displaying nested objects and arrays as sub-tables within the main table. This makes it easy to understand hierarchical data relationships.

What if my JSON has syntax errors?

The decoder validates JSON and shows exact error locations with line numbers. While it highlights errors, for automatic fixing of common issues, use our JSON Fixer tool.

Can I export decoded JSON to Excel?

Absolutely! Click the "Export to Excel" button to download decoded JSON as an .xlsx file. The export preserves your table structure including nested data, making it perfect for data analysis in spreadsheets.

Is this JSON decoder free?

Yes, completely free with no limitations. No file size restrictions, no registration required, and all features are available at no cost. Decode unlimited JSON data with full functionality.

JSON Decode - Free Online JSON Decoder Tool

Decode and Parse JSON Data with Table Visualization

Key Features: