iA Writer Markdown: Complete Guide
iA Writer is a focused writing app that uses plain markdown files. It is known for its distraction-free interface, typography, and Content Blocks feature that lets you embed other files. iA Writer supports CommonMark with extensions and is available on macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android.
Markdown support:Full
Markdown Support in iA Writer
| Format | Syntax | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Bold | **text** | Yes |
| Italic | *text* | Yes |
| Strikethrough | ~~text~~ | Yes |
| Headings | # H1 ... ###### H6 | Yes |
| Links | [text](url) | Yes |
| Images |  | Yes |
| Blockquotes | > quote | Yes |
| Ordered Lists | 1. item | Yes |
| Unordered Lists | - item | Yes |
| Code (inline) | `code` | Yes |
| Code Blocks | ```lang\ncode\n``` | Yes |
| Tables | | col | col | | Yes GFM-style pipe tables supported |
| Task Lists | - [ ] task | Yes |
| Footnotes | [^1] | Yes Rendered in preview mode |
| Horizontal Rule | --- | Yes |
Things to know
- Content Blocks let you embed .md, .csv, .jpg, and other files using /path syntax.
- Style Check highlights filler words, cliches, and redundant language.
- Files are stored as plain .md and can be used with any other markdown app.
- Supports WordPress and Ghost publishing directly from the app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does iA Writer support markdown?
Yes. iA Writer uses plain markdown (.md) files as its native format. It supports CommonMark, GFM tables, task lists, footnotes, and its own Content Blocks extension.
How do you bold text in iA Writer?
Wrap the text with double asterisks: **bold text**. iA Writer shows the formatting in its preview mode and can also highlight the markdown syntax in the editor.
What are Content Blocks in iA Writer?
Content Blocks let you embed external files (other markdown files, CSV tables, images) into your document using a /filename.ext syntax. They are rendered in preview mode.
Is iA Writer available on Windows?
Yes. iA Writer is available on macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android. It syncs files via iCloud (Apple) or file system access on other platforms.