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# How to View JSON Files on macOS
- URL: https://www.techloy.com/how-to-view-json-files-on-macos/
- Published: 2025-04-14T14:49:53.000Z
- Updated: 2025-04-14T14:49:53.000Z
- Description: Viewing JSON files on macOS is essential for developers and data analysts to easily read, edit, and debug structured data
- Author: Ogbonda Chivumnovu
- Tags: / Tech Guide, MacOS, Javascript, JSON, Software Development

If you’ve ever tried to open a `.json` file on your [Mac](https://www.techloy.com/tag/macos/) and were met with a sea of curly braces, brackets, and quotes, you’re not alone. JSON files can look confusing at first, but they’re actually a simple, readable way to store structured data.

JSON stands for JavaScript Object Notation, and it’s used to store and exchange data—most commonly between web applications and servers. You’ll find them everywhere: in [APIs](https://www.techloy.com/what-is-application-programming-interface-api/), app settings, configuration files, and even in exported data from various platforms. Think of it as a lightweight format that stores data as key-value pairs, kind of like a digital version of filling out a form.

But unlike a regular text file, JSON is designed for machines to read easily, which can make it look messy to the human eye without the right tools.

Whether you're a developer, a curious explorer, or someone just trying to read exported app data, there are a few simple ways to open and make sense of JSON files on your Mac.

## How to View JSON Files on macOS

## Opening JSON File Using TextEdit

### Step 1: Go to the folder containing the JSON file on your Mac

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.26.10-PM-1.png)

### Step 2: Right-click the file and choose *Open With* \> *TextEdit*

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.30.24-PM-1.png)

### Step 3: The JSON file will open in TextEdit on your Mac

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.34.28-PM.png)

## Opening JSON Files in Safari

### Step 1: Open Safari from your docks

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.39.30-PM-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.43.51-PM-1.png)

### Step 2: Drag and drop the JSON file onto the browser window

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.26.10-PM-3-1.png)

![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/2025/04/Screen-Shot-2025-04-14-at-1.46.45-PM-1.png)

## Conclusion

Viewing JSON files on macOS doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you prefer built-in tools like TextEdit or Safari, there’s a method that fits your workflow. Once you find the right tool, navigating JSON becomes a lot less intimidating—and a lot more useful.

[HOW TO: Hide and View Files or Folders on MacOSSafeguard your information by keeping sensitive files hidden from view.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/icon/techloy-avatar-1-1412.png)TechloyDavid Adubiina![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c1/a6/c1a6d111-d951-41ad-a392-c1e841210b93/content/images/thumbnail/photo-1617471346061-5d329ab9c574)](https://www.techloy.com/how-to-hide-and-vifiles-and-folders-on-macos/)