Working with JSON and YAML

JSON and YAML are widely used formats for storing and exchanging structured data.

In this lesson, you will learn how to parse and generate JSON and YAML in Ruby.

What is JSON?

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data format used for data exchange.

Parsing JSON

Use JSON.parse to convert a JSON string into a Ruby hash.

require 'json'
json_data = '{"name": "Alice", "age": 25}'
data = JSON.parse(json_data)
puts data['name']

Converting a Ruby Object to JSON

Use to_json to convert a Ruby hash into JSON format.

require 'json'
data = { name: 'Alice', age: 25 }
json_string = data.to_json
puts json_string

What is YAML?

YAML (Yet Another Markup Language) is a human-readable format used for configuration files.

Parsing YAML

Use YAML.load to convert a YAML string into a Ruby hash.

require 'yaml'
yaml_data = "name: Alice\nage: 25"
data = YAML.load(yaml_data)
puts data['name']

Converting a Ruby Object to YAML

Use to_yaml to convert a Ruby hash into YAML format.

require 'yaml'
data = { name: 'Alice', age: 25 }
yaml_string = data.to_yaml
puts yaml_string

Use Cases for JSON and YAML

JSON is commonly used for APIs, while YAML is preferred for configuration files.

Congratulations!

You have learned how to work with JSON and YAML in Ruby.

Next, you will explore exception handling and debugging techniques.