What is Markdown Language and How to Use it?

Have you heard about Markdown? Chances are you have already used it without knowing about it. Especially, if you use Git platforms. Git platforms like GitHub and BitBucket. So, what is it? Markdown is a simple- lightweight markup language. Markdown language that you can use to add formatting elements without the need for proper text editing tools. 

Markdown has become popular due to its simplicity and ease of use. And this is exactly what John Gruber had on his mind when he created it in 2004. He wanted a simple method to format text and only use plain text. Because only then everyone could learn and apply it in everyday formatting. Let’s know more about it.

What’s Different in Markdown Language?

Not the usual “WYSIWYG” format

Markdown language is different from other popular editors. It functions differently. Let’s consider Microsoft Word. Now, in MS Word, you click on the tab or button to do the formatting. So, if you want to make the text bold, click on “B”. Correct? It’s simple. It’s based on a simple “WYSIWYG” format, which is “what you see is what you get”. The changes are instantaneous too. You just can’t go wrong with it. Markdown has a different approach. 

Markdown emphasis on the content rather than the presentation. You are familiar with punctuation and syntax. They are used in both simple English and programming languages. Markdown uses these elements to format text. Another major reason why you may find Markdown so useful. You can use the language for developing static websites, documentation, and code databases on Git platforms. For the latter, you have to use file extensions .md or .markdown. Like markdown.md.

Syntax Takes Precedence 

In Markdown, you have to add a syntax. Markdown syntax tells you what a text should look like. So, if you want to make a certain text bold, add an asterisk before and after the text. For example, “** MarkDown**” will show “MarkDown”. If you want to make a heading, just add # before the text. You will text in the heading format. Let’s see some examples of Markdown syntax.

Headers Syntax	Output
# Header1	Header1
## Header2	Header2
### Header3	Header 3
Formatting Syntax	Output
*Write Markdown in Italic*	Write Markdown in Italics
_This is also Markdown in Italics_	This is also Markdown in Italics
**Markdown bold**	Markdown bold
__This is also Markdown bold__	This is also Markdown bold

Now, new users will require some time to get used to it. It’s quite obvious. Everything has a learning curve. So does Markdown language. Most users are moving from MS Word, HTML or similar tools. However, once you get the hang of it, it gets easy. Add to it, you can use it on almost all platforms. MacOS, Windows, iOS, Linux and Android, all have Markdown apps. Furthermore, Markdown apps are available for web-based applications, making it extremely convenient. 

Markdown Online Editors

Markdown online editors are web applications for formatting. You can use online apps to read, write and format the markdown syntax- in real-time. 

How does the Markdown Editor Work?

Most of the Markdown online editors are split-screen. They have two screens side by side. You can input and edit text on one side and preview the output on the other. The editor renders real-time. What this means is, that if you write with Markdown syntax on one screen, you see output. If you are unhappy with the result, you can easily edit it right away. Just remove the error, or use other syntax. That’s it. Preview the output. You can use these web editors to create all sorts of content. They are quite versatile. Now, let’s check some benefits of online editors.

Benefits of Using Markdown Online Editor

Real-Time editing- Markdown online editors allow you to see the source code and the output on the split-screen. This is a very useful function for real time which saves time.

Integration- Markdown online editors integrate with many online publishing tools easily. Tools such as GitHub and blogging platforms. This helps you to edit and publish your work efficiently.

Collaboration- More people are collaborating online for content and more. Markdown online editors facilitate collaborative work- work simultaneously. You can collaborate with your team to work on the same document at any given time. 

Examples of Markdown Online Editors

• StackEdit

• HackMD

• Markable

• Dillinger

• Folge.me

You can click on the names above to access the webpage links and explore the functionality. 

Getting Started with Markdown

Markdown language is simple. You don’t require any different learning or training. However, you can enhance your skills with different Markdown packages. For example, Pandoc. Pandoc is a universal compiler. You can compile Markdown files into other formats, like HTML. Additionally, enhance your editing with online plug-ins. You know how easy it is to integrate Markdown apps. With sanity-plugin-markdown, you can improve your content.

Markdown Cheet Sheet

You know by now that Markdown language uses syntax for formatting text. Most of the syntax is used by many every day. If you are a writer, a coder or someone who is into documentation, these syntaxes are easy to grasp. However, for quick referencing, you can use “Markdown Cheat Sheet”. Markdown cheat sheet is a collection of regularly used syntax. 

There are two types of referencing guides; basic and extended. The Basic syntax guide contains syntaxes that are given by the creator John Gruber. All these syntaxes are supported by all the Markdown editors and applications. Extended syntax is an extension of basic syntax. However, not all Markdown applications support them. You can download the Github Markdown cheat sheet here.

Final Word

Markdown language is a simple, effective and versatile formatting tool. If you are someone who writes and edits online, this tool is for you. You can learn it easily with little to no hassle. It most certainly has an interesting learning curve, which you are going to enjoy. Once done, you are ready to create and edit content on any platform of your choice. Markdown applications have great support across platforms. Just hop on the Markdown bandwagon and get your work done easily and efficiently.  

Frequently  Asked Questions

1. Is Markdown better than HTML?

Markdown is simpler and easier to write than HTML, but HTML offers more control and flexibility for complex formatting needs.

2. What is a Markdown in AI?

In AI, Markdown is used to format text outputs cleanly, often for displaying results, code, or explanations in readable form.

3. Does Google use markdown?

Yes, Google uses Markdown in docs, GitHub projects, and internal tools to format text, code, and documentation in a clean, readable way.

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