Using Markdown in Notepad application on Windows 11: Initial Steps
The updated Notepad app on Windows 11 now offers native support for Markdown, a lightweight markup language used to add formatting elements to plaintext documents. This feature-rich update removes the need for third-party editors, providing a lightweight yet powerful Markdown experience within the familiar Notepad interface.
Enabling Markdown in Notepad
To enable Markdown in Notepad, open the app, click the Settings (gear) button located in the top-right corner, and turn on the "Formatting" toggle switch under the "Text Formatting" section.
Creating and Editing Markdown Files
Once Markdown is enabled, you can create, open, and edit Markdown (.md) files directly in Notepad. Notepad supports viewing files in either a "Formatted" (rendered) mode or a "Syntax" (raw code) mode. To switch views, go to the View menu, select "Markdown," and then choose either mode accordingly.
Formatting with Markdown
Notepad offers options for bold and italic text formatting, as well as support for creating bullet points and ordered lists. To format text with Markdown, open a Markdown text file in Notepad and start composing your content using the syntax.
To apply formatting such as bold, italics, links, and more, you can use toolbar buttons or keyboard shortcuts. For example, use Ctrl + B for bold, Ctrl + I for italics, and Ctrl + K to insert hyperlinks. Clear formatting anytime with the "Clear formatting" button on the toolbar or by pressing Ctrl + Space. Hyperlinks become clickable and can be Ctrl+clicked to open.
Syntax Support in Notepad
While the syntax support for Markdown in Notepad is limited compared to other text editors, you can still insert links using the raw mode syntax. For example, to insert a link, select the text, click the "Link" option (Ctrl + K), confirm the webpage link, and click the "Insert" button. In raw mode, use the syntax to insert a link.
A Modern Markdown Rendering Experience
The Notepad app on Windows 11 now offers a similar Markdown rendering experience to modern text editors. This built-in Markdown support primarily aims to benefit developers who use ".md" files for README documents, changelogs, and various types of files, reducing the need for third-party apps.
With this update, Notepad on Windows 11 now includes native support for Markdown (.md) files, offering a powerful yet lightweight writing experience for users who prefer the familiar Notepad interface.
- The update for Notepad on Windows 11 includes native support for Markdown, a feature that was previously available only through third-party editors.
- In addition to Windows 11, Markdown support is also available on Windows 10, offering users a consistent writing experience across Microsoft's operating systems.
- With the latest update, users can now enjoy a modern Markdown rendering experience on their PC, similar to that offered by popular gadgets like smartphones and Xbox consoles.
- The update to Notepad on Windows 11 is the latest example of Microsoft's commitment to improving the software experience on its platforms.
- The updated Notepad app not only supports Markdown but also includes other technology-driven features like toolbar buttons and keyboard shortcuts, making it easier for users to create, edit, and format their documents.
