jq: JSON Data Extraction Tool
Use jq to extract specific fields from JSON files without loading entire file contents into context.
When to Use jq vs Read
Use jq when:
- •Need specific field(s) from structured data file
- •File is large (>50 lines) and only need subset
- •Querying nested structures
- •Filtering/transforming data
- •Saves 80-95% context vs reading entire file
Just use Read when:
- •File is small (<50 lines)
- •Need to understand overall structure
- •Making edits (need full context anyway)
Common File Types
JSON files where jq excels:
- •package.json, tsconfig.json
- •Lock files (package-lock.json, yarn.lock in JSON format)
- •API responses
- •Configuration files
Quick Examples
bash
# Get version from package.json jq -r .version package.json # Get nested dependency version jq -r '.dependencies.react' package.json # List all dependencies jq -r '.dependencies | keys[]' package.json
Core Principle
Extract exactly what is needed in one command - massive context savings compared to reading entire files.
Detailed Reference
For comprehensive jq patterns, syntax, and examples, load jq guide:
- •Core patterns (80% of use cases)
- •Real-world workflows
- •Advanced patterns
- •Pipe composition
- •Error handling
- •Integration with other tools