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

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.