Resolving the JSONDecodeError: Expecting value in Python's JSON Handling

Learn how to fix the `JSONDecodeError` when using JSON.load() in Python, ensuring your poll system works smoothly.
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Resolving the JSONDecodeError: Expecting value in Python's JSON Handling

Encountering errors while coding can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to build something fun like a polling system. One common error developers encounter when working with JSON in Python is the JSONDecodeError: Expecting value. If you've stumbled upon this error, you're not alone! In this guide, we’ll explore what this error means and how to fix it, step by step.

Understanding the Error

When you see an error message similar to the one below:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Analyzing the Code

Let's take a closer look at the code snippet you provided that leads to this error:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Issues in the Code

Recommended Solution

Ensure Your JSON File Has Valid Content:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Update Your Code:
Modify your code to ensure that you do not attempt to read from a file that you’re simultaneously writing to. Here's an adjusted version of your code that resolves this issue:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Testing the Solution

After making the adjustments mentioned above, run your code again. Here’s what you should expect:

Successful Vote

If you enter a valid key (like plop), the output should be:

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Key Not Found

If you input a key that does not exist (for example, not or anything outside of defined keys), the output should indicate that the key was not found:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

By ensuring your JSON file contains valid data and adjusting how you read and write to the file, you can bypass the frustrating JSONDecodeError: Expecting value and create a functional voting system. Happy coding!