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What is the difference between parse and serialize JSON?
Parsing JSON converts text into data structures (objects/arrays) that programs can work with, while serializing converts data structures into JSON text for storage or transmission. Parsing takes a JSON string and creates in-memory objects you can access and manipulate. Serializing (also called stringifying) takes objects and converts them to JSON format strings. In JavaScript: JSON.parse() parses, JSON.stringify() serializes. In Python: json.loads() parses, json.dumps() serializes. Parsing is essential when receiving API responses or reading configuration files. Serializing is necessary before sending data to APIs or saving to files. The processes are inverses: serialize to transmit, parse to use. Our JSON Editor at jsonconsole.com/json-editor helps you work with parsed JSON in a visual interface, making complex structures easier to understand and edit. Proper understanding of parsing and serialization is crucial for effective JSON data handling.
Last updated: December 23, 2025
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