JSON.parse() is one of the most commonly used JavaScript functions, but it throws errors when given invalid JSON. Learning how to handle these errors properly is essential for robust applications.
In this guide, we'll show you how to fix JSON.parse() errors in JavaScript, with proper error handling examples and our free JSON Fixer toolto validate JSON before parsing.
Common JSON.parse() Errors
SyntaxError: Unexpected token } in JSON
Usually caused by trailing commas or syntax errors.
SyntaxError: Unexpected end of JSON input
JSON is incomplete or missing closing braces. See the full guide.
SyntaxError: Unexpected token < in JSON
HTML was returned instead of JSON (API error).
Proper Error Handling with Try-Catch
Always wrap JSON.parse() in a try-catch block:
try {
const jsonString = '{"name": "John", "age": 30}';
const data = JSON.parse(jsonString);
console.log(data);
} catch (error) {
if (error instanceof SyntaxError) {
console.error('Invalid JSON:', error.message);
// Use JSON Fixer to fix it
} else {
console.error('Unexpected error:', error);
}
}Validate JSON Before Parsing
Validate JSON using our free JSON Validator before parsing:
💡 Best Practice:
- Validate JSON using our JSON Validator
- If invalid, use our JSON Fixer to repair it
- Then parse the fixed JSON in your code
Fix JSON.parse() Errors Instantly — Try It Below
Paste your broken JSON and our fixer will repair it for safe use with JSON.parse().