JSON Codec in Pure Lua
Encode and decode JSON with no library at all, the serializer every game save, config file, and embedded device depends on.
What you'll be able to build
Encode and decode JSON with no library at all, the serializer every game save, config file, and embedded device depends on. Along the way you pick up real, transferable Lua skills, not just this one project:
- recursion over nested tables
- distinguishing arrays from maps
- string building for encoding
- a hand-written parser/tokenizer for decoding
- escaping strings safely
- round-trip testing (encode then decode)
A course like this one
Yours is built from your own placement, so module count and depth will differ. This map shows what a intermediate-level Lua learner building JSON Codec in Pure Lua actually gets.
- Module 1: Values, tables, and output5 lessons
Builds the script for your json codec in pure lua.
- Module 2: Tables as data: arrays, records, and lookups5 lessons
Builds the table model workflow for your json codec in pure lua.
- Module 3: Control flow and truthiness5 lessons
Builds the function that powers your json codec in pure lua.
- Module 4: Functions, varargs, and errors5 lessons
Builds the reusable module for your json codec in pure lua.
- Module 5: Metatables, coroutines, and program design5 lessons
Builds the metatable behaviour for your json codec in pure lua.
- Module 6: Packaging and release readiness3 lessons
Builds the release package for your json codec in pure lua.
How the lessons actually work
Every lesson has you predict what a piece of Lua code will output before you run it, then run it for real in your browser and fix what you got wrong. Each module ends in a challenge gate with hidden tests, so you can't advance until your code actually works. The course closes with a capstone that assembles everything into JSON Codec in Pure Lua, and a runnable proof page tied to your own code.
Common questions
How long does the JSON Codec in Pure Lua course take?
about 7 hours, across 6 modules and 28 lessons, at roughly 15 minutes per lesson. Your own course may run shorter or longer, since it's sized to your placement result, not a fixed template.
Do I need experience?
Some. This is an intermediate-tier Lua project, so it assumes you're comfortable with Lua basics and pushes past them.
How much does it cost?
$15 one-time, no subscription. The first module is free, so you can see exactly how the course teaches before you pay for the rest.
No subscription. Module one is free.