How to Create a JSON File: 3 Easy Methods (2025 Guide)

Creating a JSON file is a fundamental skill for developers, data analysts, and anyone working with web applications or APIs. Whether you're building a configuration file, storing data, or setting up an API response, understanding how to create JSON files properly is essential.

But before, let's get idea on What is JSON?

Method 1: Using a Text Editor (Manual Creation)

The most straightforward way to create a JSON file is using any text editor. This method gives you complete control over your data structure and is ideal for developers who want to write JSON from scratch.
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Choose Your Text Editor

Windows: Notepad, Notepad++, Visual Studio Code
Mac: TextEdit, Sublime Text, VS Code
Linux: Gedit, Vim, Nano, VS Code

Step 2: Write Your JSON Data
Open your text editor and structure your data following JSON syntax rules:
{
"project": {
"name": "My Application",
"version": "1.0.0",
"description": "A sample project demonstrating JSON structure",
"author": {
"name": "Jane Smith",
"email": "[e-mail]"
},
"dependencies": [
"express",
"mongoose",
"dotenv"
],
"active": true
}
}
Step 3: Save as .json File

Click File > Save As
Enter filename with *.json *_extension (e.g., data.json)
Select "_All Files" or "Save as type" dropdown
Choose UTF-8 encoding for compatibility
Click Save

Important Syntax Rules:

• Always use double quotes for strings (not single quotes)

• Property names must be in double quotes

• No trailing commas after the last item

• Proper nesting of brackets and braces

• Valid data types only (string, number, boolean, null, object, array)

Best Practices:

• Use proper indentation (2 or 4 spaces) for readability
• Validate syntax before saving
• Use meaningful key names
• Keep structure consistent

Method 2: Using Online JSON Tools (Recommended)

Online JSON editors provide a user-friendly interface with built-in validation, formatting, and error detection.
JSONFormatter.gg - Free JSON Editor & Validator

Key Features:

• Real-time syntax validation
• Instant beautify/minify
• History save option
• No registration required
• Fast and secure
• AutoFix AI

How to Use:

• Visit JsonFormatter
• Input your data: Type, paste, or upload JSON
• Validate: Click "Validate JSON" to check for errors
• Format: Click "Beautify" to organize your code
• Download: Save your formatted JSON file

Method 3: Creating JSON from a URL (API-Based)
This method involves fetching JSON data from an API endpoint and saving it as a local file.

When to Use:

• Fetching data from REST APIs
• Backing up API responses
• Testing with live data

Using JavaScript:
javascriptfetch('https://api.example.com/data')
.then(response => response.json())
.then(data => {
const jsonString = JSON.stringify(data, null, 2);
const blob = new Blob([jsonString], { type: 'application/json' });
const url = URL.createObjectURL(blob);
const link = document.createElement('a');
link.href = url;
link.download = 'data.json';
link.click();
});

Using Python:
pythonimport requests
import json

response = requests.get('https://api.example.com/data')
if response.status_code == 200:
with open('data.json', 'w') as f:
json.dump(response.json(), f, indent=2)

Using cURL:
bashcurl -o output.json https://api.example.com/data

For the easiest experience with instant validation and formatting, use JSONFormatter.gg - the free, powerful JSON editor that works in your browser with no installation required.
Start creating JSON files today and streamline your development workflow!