How to format text with markdown shortcuts on Notion
Quick Answer
Notion supports markdown shortcuts that automatically format text as you type. Simply type the markdown syntax followed by a space, and Notion will convert it to formatted text instantly.
Prerequisites
- A Notion account
- Basic understanding of text formatting
- Knowledge of what markdown is
- Access to a Notion workspace
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Create headings with hash symbols
Type
# followed by a space for Heading 1, ## for Heading 2, or ### for Heading 3. Notion will automatically convert the text to the corresponding heading format when you press space. You can use up to three hash symbols for different heading levels in Notion.
2
Format text with bold and italic shortcuts
Type
**text** and press space to make text bold. Use *text* or _text_ and press space for italic formatting. For strikethrough, use ~~text~~ followed by space. You can combine formatting by using multiple symbols like **_bold italic_**.
3
Create code blocks and inline code
For inline code, wrap text with single backticks:
`code`. For code blocks, type three backticks ``` and press space. Notion will create a code block where you can specify the programming language. Add a language name after the opening backticks for syntax highlighting in code blocks.
4
Make bulleted and numbered lists
Type
-, *, or + followed by space for bullet points. For numbered lists, type 1. and space. Notion will automatically continue the numbering for subsequent items when you press Enter. Press Tab to create nested lists or Shift+Tab to move items back to a higher level.
5
Create checkboxes and toggle lists
Type
[] and space to create a checkbox (to-do item). Use [x] and space for a checked checkbox. For toggle lists, type > followed by space to create collapsible content sections. Toggle lists are great for organizing FAQ sections or hiding detailed information.
6
Add quotes and dividers
Type
> and space to create a quote block for highlighting important text. Use --- and press Enter to insert a horizontal divider line that separates content sections. Quote blocks automatically indent and style your text to stand out from regular paragraphs.
7
Insert links and callout blocks
Type
[link text](URL) to create hyperlinks. For callout blocks, type >> and space to create highlighted information boxes with custom icons and colors. Callout blocks can be customized with different background colors and emoji icons for better visual organization.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Markdown shortcuts not working when typed
Make sure you're pressing space after typing the markdown syntax. Notion only converts markdown when you add a space or press Enter after the syntax.
Code blocks not formatting correctly
Ensure you're typing exactly three backticks ``` with no spaces between them, then press space. The code block should appear immediately.
Nested lists not working properly
Use Tab to indent list items and create nesting. Make sure you're already in a list format before trying to create nested items.
Bold or italic formatting not applying
Check that you're using the correct symbols: **text** for bold and *text* for italic. Ensure there are no spaces between the symbols and your text.
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