Convert Markdown syntax to HTML
Our free Markdown to HTML converter instantly transforms Markdown text into clean HTML code with real-time preview. Essential for bloggers, content writers, developers, and anyone creating web content using Markdown's simple formatting syntax.
Using our Markdown converter is straightforward. Enter or paste your Markdown text into the input field. As you type, the tool automatically converts your Markdown to HTML. Click "Convert to HTML" to see the rendered preview below, showing exactly how your content will appear on a web page. The converter supports all standard Markdown syntax including headers, bold, italic, links, lists, code blocks, and more. You can copy the HTML code for use in your website or blog.
Markdown is a lightweight markup language created by John Gruber in 2004. It uses simple, readable syntax to format plain text that can be converted to HTML. Markdown is designed to be easy to write and read even in its raw form. For example, surrounding text with asterisks (*text*) makes it italic, double asterisks (**text**) makes it bold, and starting a line with # creates a heading. This simplicity makes Markdown popular for writing documentation, README files, blog posts, and forum comments.
Headers: Use # for H1, ## for H2, up to ###### for H6. Example: # Title creates an H1 heading.
Emphasis: *italic* or _italic_ for italic text. **bold** or __bold__ for bold text. ***bold italic*** for both.
Links: [link text](URL) creates hyperlinks. Example: [Google](https://google.com)
Lists: Use * or - for bullets, or numbers for ordered lists. Example: * Item 1 creates a bulleted list.
Code: Wrap inline code with backticks `code` or use triple backticks for code blocks.
Developers write README files for GitHub projects in Markdown, which GitHub automatically renders. Technical writers create documentation that's easy to edit and version control. Bloggers write posts in Markdown for platforms like Jekyll, Hugo, or Ghost. Content creators use Markdown in CMS systems that support it. Students take notes in Markdown for easy formatting and export. Forum users write formatted posts on platforms like Reddit and Stack Overflow. Authors write books and articles in Markdown for easier conversion to multiple formats. Translators work with Markdown files to preserve formatting across languages.
Markdown is much simpler and faster to write than HTML. While HTML requires opening and closing tags like <strong>text</strong>, Markdown just uses **text**. Markdown is more readable in its raw form, making it better for writing and editing. However, HTML offers more control and features. Many content creators write in Markdown for speed and simplicity, then convert to HTML when needed for web publishing. Markdown also makes content more portable - the same Markdown can be converted to HTML, PDF, or other formats.
Different platforms use different "flavors" of Markdown with slight variations and extensions. GitHub Flavored Markdown (GFM) adds features like tables, task lists, and strikethrough. CommonMark is a standardized specification aiming for consistency. MultiMarkdown adds footnotes and citations. Each flavor extends basic Markdown with additional features. Our converter supports standard Markdown syntax that works across most platforms. Understanding these differences helps ensure your Markdown renders correctly on your target platform.
Markdown separates content from formatting, letting you focus on writing without worrying about HTML tags. It's platform-independent and future-proof - Markdown files from 10 years ago still work today. Version control systems like Git handle Markdown excellently, making it perfect for collaborative writing. Many static site generators and CMS platforms natively support Markdown. Learning Markdown takes minutes but provides lasting benefits for anyone creating digital content. It's especially valuable for developers, writers, and anyone maintaining documentation.
All Markdown to HTML conversion happens locally in your browser. Your content never leaves your device, ensuring complete privacy for sensitive documents. The tool processes conversions instantly and works offline once loaded. No registration or account required.