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How to properly json read json file in Python? or What's the best way to json read json file without - CloudStormX - 19-07-2024

"Struggling to json read json file – any tips?"

Hey folks,

So I’ve been trying to json read json file in Python, but it keeps throwing errors or just... doesn’t work? Like, I *think* I’m doing it right, but apparently not.

Here’s what I’ve got:
```python
import json
with open('data.json', 'r') as f:
data = json.load(f)
```
But sometimes it crashes with "JSONDecodeError" or some weird encoding stuff. Am I missing something obvious?

Also, what’s the deal with encoding? Do I *always* need to specify it? And why does it fail when the file has trailing commas? Ugh.

Any tips to json read json file *without* pulling my hair out? Thanks!

(PS: Yes, I checked Stack Overflow. Still confused.)


“” - webDiverX - 08-11-2024

Hey! I had the same issue when trying to json read json file. Turns out, trailing commas *aren't* valid in JSON, even though they work in JavaScript. Python's parser is strict about it.

Try running your file through a validator like [JSONLint](https://jsonlint.com/)—it’ll catch stuff like that. Also, yeah, encoding can bite you. Try opening with `encoding='utf-8'` just to be safe.

Hope that helps!


“” - vpnFlyX77 - 02-03-2025

Ugh, json read json file problems are the worst. Your code looks fine, but here’s a pro tip:

Sometimes the file isn’t *actually* JSON. Maybe it’s malformed or has hidden chars. Try printing the raw file content first:

```python
with open('data.json', 'r') as f:
print(f.read())
```

If it looks weird, you might need to clean it up. Also, `json.loads()` is your friend if you’re dealing with strings instead of files.


“” - anonyJumper77 - 10-03-2025

Yo, encoding issues are a pain. When you json read json file, always specify encoding like this:

```python
with open('data.json', 'r', encoding='utf-8') as f:
data = json.load(f)
```

If it’s still failing, maybe the file’s corrupted? Try re-downloading or regenerating it. Also, trailing commas = instant death for JSON parsers. Remove ’em!


“” - shadowRushX99 - 26-03-2025

Been there! For json read json file, I swear by `json.load()` too, but here’s a twist:

Sometimes the error isn’t in your code—it’s in the file. Open it in a text editor and check for invisible chars (like BOM). Notepad++ has a "show all characters" option that’s saved me hours.

Also, if the file’s huge, maybe try `ijson` for streaming?


“” - dataVoyX99 - 02-04-2025

JSONDecodeError usually means your file’s formatting is off. When you json read json file, Python expects *perfect* JSON. No comments, no trailing commas, nada.

Quick fix? Use `json5` library instead—it’s more forgiving with stuff like comments. Install with `pip install json5` and swap `json.load()` for `json5.load()`.

Life. Saver.


“” - FirewallStorm77 - 04-04-2025

Encoding hell, right? When you json read json file, always assume the worst.

Try this:

```python
with open('data.json', 'rb') as f:
raw = f.read().decode('utf-8-sig') # kills BOM if present
data = json.loads(raw)
```

BOM chars are sneaky and will wreck your day. This’ll strip ’em out.


“” - CloudStormX - 05-04-2025

OP here—wow, thanks for all the tips! Didn’t realize trailing commas were such a big deal. Ran my file through JSONLint and found a bunch of issues.

Also, the `encoding='utf-8'` trick worked! Still getting one weird error though—what if the file has single quotes instead of double? Do I *have* to replace them all, or is there a lazy fix?

(And yeah, `json5` looks awesome—gonna try that next!)


“” - fastHawkX - 06-04-2025

If you’re stuck on json read json file, maybe your file’s not *actually* JSON? Like, maybe it’s JSONL (one object per line)?

For that, you’d need:

```python
with open('data.json', 'r') as f:
for line in f:
data = json.loads(line)
```

Just a thought! Also, yeah, encoding='utf-8' is your bestie.


“” - GhostRunnerX - 07-04-2025

Trailing commas in JSON? Nope nope nope. Python’s `json` module hates those.

When you json read json file, make sure it’s *strict* JSON. Use VS Code’s JSON validator or something similar to spot issues.

Also, if the file’s from an API, maybe it’s sending garbage? Check the response headers for encoding hints.