FILE TYPE COLLECTION
Data File Types & Formats
Browse data file types and formats for structured records and configuration, including CSV, JSON, XML, YAML, TOML and KMZ.
Choose a workflow
This hub groups structured-data and developer/configuration workflows by the task. Being able to read text does not establish that a target application accepts it. Use a reviewed guide for format-specific structure and encoding.
Identify the consumer
Find the application or parser that expects the file. Its requirements are more useful than opening everything in a generic editor.
Inspect without executing
Work on a copy. Do not run unknown code or load unknown configuration into a live system just to identify it.
Check structure and values
Compare encoding, required fields and value expectations separately. Format identification does not validate every data value.
Common tasks and format choices
Typical workflows
Exchange tabular data, inspect APIs, edit configuration, or move structured records between applications. CSV, JSON, XML, YAML, and TOML differ in structure and typing.
Compatibility checklist
Confirm encoding, delimiters, schema expectations, and the exact consumer. A text editor can display the file, but only the target application can confirm compatibility.