JSON Formatter not working? Here's how to fix it
Most issues are small and fixable in seconds. Work through these in order.
1. The tool won't load
Reload the page or open it in a fresh tab. If an extension blocks scripts, use private (incognito) mode — the tool needs JavaScript, which is on by default in every modern browser.
2. Validation reports an error
The error is usually a missing comma, an extra bracket, or misplaced quotes. Read the message, fix the spot it points to, and validate again. Formatting first makes errors easier to see.
3. A file won't upload
Confirm the file is under 10 MB and actually contains JSON. A renamed file that isn't JSON will fail to parse.
4. The output looks wrong
Check whether you used format or minify. Format adds indentation; minify removes it. Choose the action you actually need.
5. Copy or download is missing
Check your browser's clipboard permission and download settings. Many browsers block clipboard or automatic downloads by default.
Still stuck?
Try a different current browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge). Because the tool runs locally, a fresh environment usually resolves remaining edge cases.
Verdict
Most JSON problems are solved by a reload, fixing a syntax error, or using the right action.