Markdown is a lightweight markup language created by John Gruber in 2004. It uses simple text formatting syntax that converts to HTML. For example, # creates a heading, **text** creates bold, *text* creates italic, and [text](url) creates a link. It is widely used for README files, documentation, blog posts, forum comments, and note-taking applications.

What Markdown syntax does this preview support?

This preview supports headings (# through ######), bold (**text** or __text__), italic (*text* or _text_), links [text](url), unordered lists (- or * items), ordered lists (1. items), inline code (`code`), code blocks (``` fenced), blockquotes (> text), and horizontal rules (--- or ***). These cover the core Markdown specification.

Can I use this for GitHub README files?

Yes, the core Markdown syntax supported here is compatible with GitHub Flavored Markdown (GFM). Headings, bold, italic, links, lists, and code blocks all render the same way on GitHub. However, this preview does not support GFM-specific extensions like task lists, tables, strikethrough, or emoji shortcodes.

Markdown Preview - Free Online Tool

Q: How is the preview rendered?

The preview is rendered entirely in your browser using a lightweight Markdown-to-HTML converter built into the tool. Your text is never sent to any server. The converter processes the Markdown syntax and generates corresponding HTML elements with Tailwind CSS styling for a clean, readable preview.

Q: Can I copy the generated HTML?

Yes, you can copy the generated HTML using the Copy HTML button. This gives you the raw HTML output that you can paste into any HTML context. You can also copy the rendered text content (without HTML tags) using the Copy Text button. This is useful for previewing how your Markdown will look when rendered.

Write markdown in the editor and see a live HTML preview. Supports headings, bold, italic, links, lists, code, and more.

How to Use the Markdown Preview

Type or paste markdown into the editor on the left and the preview updates in real time on the right. The tool supports all core markdown syntax: headings, bold, italic, links, unordered and ordered lists, inline code, fenced code blocks, blockquotes, and horizontal rules. Statistics below show word count, line count, and heading count.

Use the Copy HTML button to get the raw HTML output for pasting into web pages or CMS editors. Use the Copy Text button to get the rendered text content without HTML tags. All processing happens in your browser with no data sent to any server, making it safe for private and sensitive content.

Markdown Syntax Guide

Markdown was designed to be as readable as possible in its raw form. The syntax uses characters you would naturally use in plain text emails. Headings use hash symbols (#, ##, ###). Bold uses double asterisks (**bold**). Italic uses single asterisks (*italic*). Links use brackets and parentheses [text](url). Lists use dashes or numbers. Code uses backticks.

Headings

Use one to six hash symbols followed by a space to create headings. # for h1, ## for h2, ### for h3, and so on. Most documents use h1 for the title and h2/h3 for sections and subsections. Headings help both readers and search engines understand the structure of your content. A well-structured heading hierarchy improves readability and accessibility.

Text Formatting

Bold text is wrapped in double asterisks (**bold**) or double underscores (__bold__). Italic text uses single asterisks (*italic*) or single underscores (_italic_). Inline code uses backticks (`code`). Fenced code blocks use triple backticks on separate lines before and after the code. These formatting options cover the vast majority of text formatting needs for documentation, blog posts, and technical writing.

Lists and Links

Unordered lists use a dash, asterisk, or plus sign followed by a space. Ordered lists use numbers followed by a period and space. Links use the format [display text](URL). Lists and links are the backbone of structured content in markdown. Nested lists are created by indenting child items with spaces. Links can include titles using [text](url "title") format for accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Markdown?

A lightweight markup language that converts to HTML. Created in 2004, used for documentation, READMEs, blogs, and notes.

What syntax does this preview support?

Headings, bold, italic, links, unordered and ordered lists, inline code, code blocks, blockquotes, and horizontal rules.

Can I use this for GitHub READMEs?

Yes. Core syntax is compatible with GitHub Flavored Markdown. Tables, task lists, and strikethrough are not supported.

How is the preview rendered?

Entirely in your browser. A lightweight converter processes Markdown to HTML with styled output. No server processing.

Can I copy the generated HTML?

Yes. Copy HTML gives you raw HTML tags. Copy Text gives you the rendered text without tags.

Markdown Preview

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