Markdown and note-taking glossary
Plain-English definitions of the terms used across atiea and the wider notes world.
Markdown
A lightweight way of formatting plain text with ordinary characters, such as # for headings and ** for bold. Files are readable in any text editor. Learn more →
MD file
A plain-text file written in markdown, usually with the .md extension. Learn more →
Wiki link
A link from one note to another written with double square brackets, like [[Note title]]. Learn more →
Backlink
An automatic link back to a note, listing every other note that links to it. Learn more →
Tag
A label written inline, such as #idea, used to group notes by topic without folders. Learn more →
Task list
A markdown checklist written with - [ ] for open items and - [x] for completed ones. Learn more →
Markdown table
A table written with pipes between columns and a row of dashes under the header. Learn more →
Local-first
An approach where the copy of your data on your own device is the primary one: apps work offline and syncing is optional. Learn more →
Zettelkasten
A note-taking method built on small, single-idea notes linked together. Learn more →
Syntax highlighting
Styling markdown symbols and structure as you type so headings, lists and links are visible in the editor. Learn more →
Vault
In some apps, a folder of notes treated as one library. Obsidian uses this term. Learn more →
Plain text
Text with no hidden formatting data, so any app can open it and it outlasts any one tool. Learn more →
Start writing something calm.
A native Mac app for markdown notes.
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