Using Markdown in Quip

By Adam Van Fossen

Hey internet, you asked for Markdown syntax in Quip docs, and we delivered! Formatting in Quip just got twice as fast. This feature is perfect for bloggers, wiki authors, and web writers, but it is also super helpful to all you keyboard-shortcut fans.

What is markdown?

New to Markdown? That's okay. Markdown is a plain text formatting syntax used by web writers and developers everywhere. Simply put, it's an easy system of formatting commands that enable you to create numbered and bulleted lists, headers, checklists, new code blocks and even comment windows without lifting your fingers off the keyboard. You just need to learn a few simple keystrokes to get started!

Why Markdown is awesome

Markdown is really easy to learn. If you're an avid Quip user, lists and headings are likely the way you organize your documents. Now, instead of clicking the paragraph widget, you can just type one key and create the kind of list you want.

You can also export documents in Markdown, which makes publishing a cinch. Select “Export as Markdown” and the text will be automatically saved to your clipboard so you can paste in your wiki, Wordpress editor, or any other platform that understands Markdown.

the Markdown commands in quip you should know

The table below shows some of the most useful shortcuts in Quip. Feel free to try them out for yourself!

Keystroke Shortcut
* or - then space Start a bulleted list
// then space at the end of a line or paragraph Add comment
# or ## or ### then space Heading 1, 2 or 3 respectively
Hit space 4 times Start a new code block
[] then space (two brackets) Start a new checklist
{{ type any text then }} Contents contained within brackets turns into inline code

One more thing

This feature originated from feedback from users like you! Let us know if you have ideas for other cool additions to Quip. We'd love to hear from you. Reach out on Twitter or send us an email anytime.