What type of data is a JSON file classified as?

A JSON file is classified as semi-structured data due to its unique characteristics. Semi-structured data is defined by the presence of organized elements that do not conform strictly to a fixed schema, allowing for flexible data representation. JSON files provide hierarchical storage of data with key-value pairs, enabling varying data types within the same file.

This structure allows for easy inclusion of nested elements and arrays, promoting flexibility while still maintaining some organization, which is the hallmark of semi-structured data. This contrasts with structured data, which adheres to strict schemas and is typically stored in relational databases, while unstructured data lacks any predefined format, such as text documents and images. The binary classification refers to data that is stored in binary format, such as application files, rather than in a text-based format like JSON. Thus, JSON's combination of organization and flexibility positions it squarely within the realm of semi-structured data.