Markdown file: What you need to know about the file format

by Johannes

Markdown files belong to the Markdown simplified markup language. They contain plain text that can be used and displayed in a variety of ways

Markdown files at a glance

The file extension .md indicates a Markdown file that makes use of the Markdown markup language.

  • They only contain text and formatting symbols according to the Markdown dialects. The files are primarily used for readmes and documentation.
  • Markdown files can also be used to create rich text. Archiving and comparing source texts is also effectively possible via the file format.
  • Markdown files can be opened, edited and created using either regular text programs or corresponding Markdown editors. The latter significantly simplify the process for beginners.
  • Note: Due to the formatting, .md files are easier to convert to HTML.

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