Markdown

Markdown is a lightweight markup language designed for formatting text on the web. It allows users to write using an easy-to-read, easy-to-write plain text format, which then can be converted into structurally valid HTML (or other formats). Its primary goal is to make web content writing accessible without having to write cumbersome HTML tags for basic formatting and document organization. The beauty of Markdown is that it's designed to be human-readable even in its raw form.

Why Use Markdown?

  • Simplicity: Unlike complex word processors, Markdown focuses on content rather than visual layout. Its syntax is unobtrusive and easy to learn.

  • Portability: Plain text files are universally compatible. Your Markdown document will look the same wherever you can open a text file.

  • Web Focus: Markdown excels in creating content for the web. You can easily convert it to HTML for blogs, websites, and documentation.

Example: Let's see Markdown in action

Here's some basic Markdown syntax and how it appears when rendered:

Markdown Text

# This is a top-level heading
## Heading 2

**This text is bold.**

* Item 1
* Item 2

- Bullet list
- Second item

[Link to Google!](http://google.com)

*Italic Text*

`Inline code` with backticks

Common Markdown Elements

  • Headings: Use "#" symbols (e.g., ## for an H2 heading).

  • Bold: Surround text with double asterisks

  • Italic: Surround text with single asterisks

  • Lists: Unordered lists use asterisks, dashes, or plus signs. Ordered lists use numbers.

  • Links: Link Text: https://www.example.com

  • Images: Alt Text: image-link.jpg

Where is Markdown Used?

  • Blogs and Websites: Platforms like WordPress and Ghost support Markdown for content creation.

  • Documentation: GitHub, Readme files, and many technical tools use Markdown for formatting.

  • Note-taking Apps: Apps like Notion and Bear offer Markdown formatting

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