Microsoft’s updated feature I mean Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad has brought about a major change—Markdown editing becomes natively supported. Users can now easily open, create, and edit their .md files without the need for any additional software or tools. It is very convenient because, on the one hand, it allows developers to write their README files quickly and efficiently and, on the other hand, notes are taken in a more user-friendly way by people who are unfamiliar with the Markdown language.
This article will guide you step-by-step on the procedures to be followed in order to turn Notepad Markdown on or off, formatting the document correctly, as well as by using the raw and the formatted view.
What Is Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad and Why Should It Be Used ?
Markdown is a simple markup language that uses easy-to-understand syntax to make the plain text more attractive to the eye. The main areas where it finds usage are:
- Headings & Subheadings (#, ##, ###)
- Bold & Italic text (**bold**, *italic*)
- Lists (ordered and unordered)
- Links ([link text](URL))
By integrating Markdown into Notepad, Microsoft offers a built-in, minimal, and distraction-free environment for editing and previewing formatted text—ideal for quick edits without opening a full IDE.
How to Enable Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad
Markdown support is not enabled by default. To switch it on:
- Start Notepad from the Start menu.
- Click the Settings (gear) icon in the top-right corner.
- Under Text Formatting, change the toggle for Formatting from Off to On.
Notepad will then be able to show you your Markdown directly in the formatted view.
Creating and Saving Markdown Files in Notepad
Steps to create a new .md file:
- Launch Notepad.
- Go to File → Save As.
- Type your filename followed by the .md extension (e.g.,myNotes.md).
- Click Save.
You can actually begin typing in Markdown syntax or even use the formatting toolbar.
Using the Toolbar of Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad
Notepad’s Markdown toolbar helps you format your text without the need to remember the syntax. You can:
- Add Headings (H1 to H5) via the dropdown menu.
- Create bullet points and numbered lists.
- Apply bold or italic styling.
- Insert clickable links.
💡 Pro Tip: Use Ctrl + K to insert a hyperlink quickly.
Switching Between Raw and Formatted Views
Markdown in Notepad supports two render modes:
- Formatted View: Displays the text with the applied styles.
- Syntax (Raw) View: Shows the unformatted Markdown code.
To change views:
- Click View on the menu bar.
- Select Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad→ Formatted or Markdown → Syntax.
If you want to type the Markdown syntax manually or find an error,
Common Syntax for Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad
Here’s a quick reference for formatting in Notepad:
| Style | Markdown Syntax | Example Output |
|---|---|---|
| H1 Title | # Heading | Heading |
| H2 Subtitle | ## Subtitle | Subtitle |
| Bold | **text** | text |
| Italic | *text* | text |
| Bullet List | - item | – item |
| Number List | 1. item | 1. item |
| Link | [text](URL) | text |
Disabling Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad
If you are more comfortable with plain text,
- Launch Notepad.
- Select the Settings (gear) option.
- Under Text Formatting, switch the Formatting to Off.
The standard Notepad usage will be brought back to you.
Limitations of Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad
Though handy, the extent of Markdown operability in Notepad is minimal when compared to that of specially designed editors like VS Code or Typora. Microsoft’s intention is not to offer a full feature editor but a simple, quick editing tool along with previews.
Why Markdown in Windows 11 Notepad Matters
Notepad’s addition of Markdown serves:
- Developers — Editing README and changelog files can be done fast without the need of using any third-party tools.
- Writers — Producing simple, well-formatted documents with minimal distraction is possible.
- Students — Writing organized, readable notes that are easily shareable online becomes effortless.
Microsoft has simplified the flow for users of .md files by cutting back on their reliance on third-party applications.s.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft has essentially given a facelift to its heritage with the addition of local Markdown support. Though it still cannot compete with the power of the advanced editing tools, it serves as a perfect easy-to-use app for on-the-go users to edit and see their Markdown file instantly without any extra setup.
Notepad may be your new favorite writing tool if you decide to test it out and perform the simple steps mentioned above.