How do I fix JSON validation errors?

Advanced Topics

JSON syntax errors can be frustrating, but JSON Copilot makes them easy to understand and fix! Our editor provides real-time error detection with clear messages, line numbers, and helpful suggestions. Learn to interpret common validation errors and fix them quickly.

Real-Time Error Detection

The editor highlights syntax errors as you type, with red squiggly underlines and detailed error messages when you hover.

Common JSON Errors & Fixes

Missing or Extra Comma

❌ Incorrect:

{
  "name": "Alice"
  "age": 30
}

✅ Correct:

{
  "name": "Alice",
  "age": 30
}

Fix: Add comma between properties, but NOT after the last property.

Unquoted Keys

❌ Incorrect:

{
  name: "Alice",
  age: 30
}

✅ Correct:

{
  "name": "Alice",
  "age": 30
}

Fix: All keys must be wrapped in double quotes.

Single Quotes Instead of Double

❌ Incorrect:

{
  'name': 'Alice',
  'age': 30
}

✅ Correct:

{
  "name": "Alice",
  "age": 30
}

Fix: JSON requires double quotes (") not single quotes (').

Trailing Comma

❌ Incorrect:

{
  "name": "Alice",
  "age": 30,
}

✅ Correct:

{
  "name": "Alice",
  "age": 30
}

Fix: Remove comma after the last property or array element.

Mismatched Brackets

❌ Incorrect:

{
  "items": [1, 2, 3}
]

✅ Correct:

{
  "items": [1, 2, 3]
}

Fix: Match opening [ with closing ], and opening { with closing }.

Comments in JSON

❌ Incorrect:

{
  // This is a comment
  "name": "Alice"
}

✅ Correct:

{
  "name": "Alice"
}

Fix: Standard JSON doesn't support comments. Remove them or use JSONC format.

Error Location Tips

Check Line Numbers

Error messages include line and column numbers - use Cmd/Ctrl + G to jump directly to the error location.

Bracket Matching

Click next to a bracket - the editor highlights the matching bracket to help identify mismatched pairs.

Look Above the Error

Missing commas often report errors on the next line. Check the line above for missing commas.

Use Format to Auto-Fix

If JSON is valid but poorly formatted, use Format (Option/Alt + Shift + F) to reveal structure.

Quick Fix Workflow

1

Look for red squiggly underlines in the editor

2

Hover over the underline to read the error message

3

Apply the fix based on the error type

4

Verify the error disappears as you type

Pro Tip: Copy Valid JSON First

If you're struggling with errors in manually typed JSON, try copying a small valid JSON example first, then modify it. This ensures the basic structure is correct.

Still Have Questions?

Check out our other FAQ topics or return to the JSON Copilot app

All JSON formatting and validation happens locally in your browser. No data is sent to any servers.