Markdown is a lightweight markup language that you can use to add formatting elements to plaintext text documents.
It was created by John Gruber in 2004 with the help of Aaron Swartz. Markdown is often used to format readme files, for writing messages in online discussion forums, and to create rich text using a plain text editor.
Markdown allows you to write using an easy-to-read, easy-to-write plain text format, then convert it to structurally valid XHTML or HTML.
Below are some common Markdown formatting syntax examples:
-
Headings: Use
#for headings. The number of#symbols indicates the level of the heading. -
Emphasis: Use
*or_for emphasis. Surround text with single asterisks or underscores for italic and double symbols for bold. -
Lists: Use
-,*, or1.for unordered and ordered lists. -
Links: Use
[link text](url)for creating links.
Markdown is a versatile tool that can be quickly learned and highly useful for anyone working with text that needs formatting. From writers to programmers to project managers, Markdown can make your life easier when creating and sharing content.