Markdown Syntax Guide

Try Syntax

Syntax Reference

What Is Markdown Syntax?

Markdown is a lightweight markup language for readable plain text that converts to HTML. The syntax uses simple conventions: # for headings, * and ** for emphasis, - for lists, and | for tables. The CommonMark spec and GitHub Flavored Markdown define the rules.

This tool shows a syntax guide in the right panel with examples for headings, emphasis, lists, links, images, blockquotes, code blocks, tables, task lists, and escaping. Use the left editor to try syntax. For a compact reference, use Markdown Cheat Sheet. For converting Markdown to HTML, use Markdown to HTML.

How to Use This Tool

Read the Syntax Guide

The right panel lists syntax with examples: H1–H4, bold/italic/strikethrough, ordered and unordered lists, links, images, blockquotes, inline and fenced code, tables, task lists, horizontal rules, and escaping.

Try in the Editor

Paste or type Markdown in the left editor. Use Sample to load example content. Experiment with the syntax from the guide. For formatting existing Markdown, use Markdown Formatter.

Copy or Download the Guide

Copy the syntax guide to your clipboard or download it as a .md file. For generating tables from CSV, use Markdown Table Generator. For a TOC, use Markdown TOC Generator.

Where Syntax Knowledge Helps

README files on GitHub, documentation sites (e.g., VitePress, MkDocs), and wikis use Markdown. Knowing the syntax helps you write consistent docs. The Markdown Guide offers tutorials; this tool provides a copy-paste reference.

For linting Markdown for style issues, use Markdown Linter. For validating syntax, use Markdown Validator. For converting HTML to Markdown, use HTML to Markdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

CommonMark vs GFM?

CommonMark is the base. GFM adds tables, task lists, strikethrough, autolinks. Most platforms support GFM.

How do I escape characters?

Use backslash: \*, \_, \[, etc. Backslash itself: \\.

Syntax guide vs cheat sheet?

The syntax guide has more examples and structure. The cheat sheet is compact. Use Markdown Cheat Sheet for a shorter reference.

Does it support task lists?

Yes. - [x] and - [ ] are GFM extensions. Supported on GitHub, GitLab, and many renderers.

Is my data private?

Yes. Everything runs in your browser. No content is sent to any server.