Markdown lets you format text without leaving your keyboard. This beginner guide covers every essential syntax you need.
What is Markdown?
Markdown converts plain text to HTML using simple characters like #, *, and -. It is the standard for README files and developer docs.
Headings
Use # for headings β one # for H1, two for H2, and so on.
Emphasis
- Bold with
**double asterisks** - Italic with
*single asterisks* Strikethroughwith~~tildes~~
Lists
Unordered lists use - or *. Ordered lists use 1., 2., etc.
Links and Images
[Link text](https://example.com) creates a link. embeds an image β always include descriptive alt text for accessibility and SEO.
Code
Inline code uses backticks: npm install. Fenced blocks use triple backticks with an optional language tag.
Tables
Tables use pipes and dashes β great for comparisons and reference data.
Practice Markdown Free
Open our online Markdown editor to write, preview, and export your first document to PDF or HTML.