How to Split a JSON Object into an Array Using JavaScript

Learn how to convert a JSON-like string into a structured JSON object with this step-by-step guide. Using JavaScript, we will explore two methods to achieve this.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: How to split a JSON object into an array

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
How to Split a JSON Object into an Array Using JavaScript

Working with JSON data is a common task for developers. However, sometimes the data we're dealing with isn't in the format we require. For instance, you might come across a JSON-like string where each key-value pair is formatted as Key = Value, separated by new lines. The challenge then arises: How can you convert this string into a properly formatted JSON object?

In this guide, we will break down this problem and explore effective solutions using regular expressions and JavaScript.

The Problem at Hand

Consider the following string representation of a JSON object:

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

This string contains several key-value pairs, but it is not structured as a JSON object. Instead, it follows a pattern:

Each key is followed by an equal sign (=).

There may be some whitespace between the key, the equal sign, and the value.

Each pair is on a new line.

Our goal is to convert this string into a JSON object that looks like this:

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

Solutions for Parsing the String

Method 1: Using a Regular Expression with a Loop

The first method involves using a regular expression to capture the key and value pairs, then creating the JSON object in a for loop.

Here’s how to do it:

Define the String: Start by defining your string containing the key-value pairs.

Create an Object: Initialize an empty object to store the results.

Regular Expression: Use matchAll to find all matches of the pattern. The pattern we will use is:

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

This pattern will match non-space characters (the key), an equal sign, and then everything up to the end of the line (the value).

Populate the Object: Use a loop to assign the captured keys and values to your object.

Here's the code:

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

Here’s a step-by-step explanation:

Define the String: Similar to before, you begin with a string of key-value pairs.

Match All Pairs: Use matchAll to get the key-value matches.

Map to Entries: Transform the matches into an array of entries.

Here’s the code for this approach:

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

Conclusion

Now you're equipped with the knowledge to manage such data conversions in your own applications efficiently. Happy coding!