---
# System prepended metadata

title: hackmd-basics

---

# HackMD Basics — Quick Tip Sheet 

## Writing & Formatting Text

- Headings: `# H1`, `## H2`, `### H3`
- Bold: `**bold**`
- Italic: `*italic*`
- Bullet list: `- item`
- Numbered list: `1. item`
- Line break: press `Enter` twice

## Inline Code (for commands & filenames)
Use backticks for short technical items:
- Commands: `pwd`, `ls -a`, `git status`
- Filenames: `package.json`, `.gitignore`
- Folders: `src/`, `public/`
- File types: `.md`, `.ts`, `.svg`

> Inline code is best for **reading on screen**, not printing.

## Links
- Plain link: `https://hackmd.io`
- Labeled link: `[HackMD](https://hackmd.io)`

## Horizontal Rules (Section Breaks)
Use three dashes on a line by themselves:
`---`

## Comments & Collaboration
- Anyone with the link can view (depending on settings)
- Multiple people can edit at once
- Changes appear live
- Use headings to avoid collisions

## Exporting & Sharing
- Share: copy the URL
- Export: `⋯ → Export → PDF / Markdown`
- Printing: **Export to PDF first** for best results

## Common Gotchas
- Inline code `` `like this` `` may print as plain text
- Long lines don’t wrap nicely when printed
- HackMD auto-saves — no “Save” button needed

## Mental Model
> HackMD is **for drafting, sharing, and thinking together**.  
> Use it first; polish elsewhere if needed.
