How to Format JSON in JavaScript

The standard pattern is to parse first and stringify second. `JSON.parse` validates syntax and converts text into objects, while `JSON.stringify(data, null, 2)` gives readable output with indentation.

This two-step flow is reliable for API debugging, config checks, and developer tooling where predictable formatting matters.

Always wrap parsing in try/catch so malformed payloads do not break your UI or scripts. Surface clear error messages with line context where possible.

For user-facing tools, validating input on every edit and showing actionable feedback dramatically improves usability.

Use pretty-printing during development for readability and code review, and minified JSON for compact payload transfer or URL-safe sharing where size matters.

A complete formatter workflow should support both modes, plus tree view and copy/download actions for fast iteration.