YAML to JSON
Convert YAML to JSON
About This Tool
The YAML to JSON Converter transforms YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language) files into JSON format. Both formats are used for configuration files and data exchange, but different tools and APIs may require one or the other.
Paste your YAML and get valid, formatted JSON instantly. The converter validates your YAML syntax and reports any errors.
How It Works
How to Use This Converter
Converting YAML to JSON is straightforward:
- Paste YAML - Enter your YAML content in the input area.
- Click Convert - The tool parses and converts your YAML.
- View JSON - See the formatted JSON output with syntax highlighting.
- Copy or download - Get your JSON ready to use.
Formula
Conversion Examples
YAML key-value pairs become JSON objects. YAML lists become JSON arrays. YAML comments (#) are not preserved in JSON. Multi-line strings with | (literal) or > (folded) convert to regular JSON strings.
Examples
Examples
Example 1: Simple Config
YAML: database: / host: localhost / port: 5432
JSON: {"database":{"host":"localhost","port":5432}}
Example 2: Arrays
YAML: fruits: / - apple / - banana / - orange
JSON: {"fruits":["apple","banana","orange"]}
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert YAML to JSON?
Paste YAML content and the converter produces equivalent JSON. YAML mappings become JSON objects, sequences become arrays, and scalar values are typed (strings, numbers, booleans, null). Comments are removed since JSON does not support them.
Why convert YAML to JSON?
JSON is more widely supported by APIs, programming languages, and tools. Converting YAML configuration files to JSON enables use with JSON-only systems. JSON is also easier to validate and has stricter, less ambiguous syntax.
How are YAML anchors and aliases converted?
YAML anchors (&name) and aliases (*name) are resolved during conversion. The referenced content is duplicated in the JSON output. JSON does not have an equivalent reference mechanism, so all values are expanded inline.
Does the converter handle YAML multi-document files?
Yes. YAML files separated by --- are converted to a JSON array where each document is an element. Single-document YAML produces a single JSON object. The converter indicates how many documents were found.
How are YAML data types mapped to JSON?
Strings → strings, integers → numbers, floats → numbers, booleans (true/false/yes/no) → true/false, null/~ → null, sequences → arrays, mappings → objects. YAML's date type becomes a string in JSON since JSON has no date type.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This tool provides automated data format conversion. YAML-specific features like comments and anchors/aliases are not represented in JSON. Always verify the output accuracy before use. All processing happens in your browser; no data is transmitted to any server.
💡 Tips
Tips
- YAML uses indentation for structure - ensure consistent spacing
- YAML comments (#) are not preserved in JSON
- Use quotes for strings with special characters
- Validate your YAML before converting
- JSON doesn't support comments - add them separately if needed