HackMD is a helpful online tool that lets people write and share notes together. It is popular among developers, students, teachers, and teams. You can use it to take notes, write articles, or work on documents with other people in real time. In this article, we will explore what HackMD is, how to use it, and why it is useful.
What is HackMD?
HackMD is a web-based platform for writing in Markdown. Markdown is a simple text format that turns plain text into clean and readable documents. HackMD lets you write in Markdown and see how it looks instantly.
With HackMD, you can:
- Create and edit notes quickly
- Share notes with others
- Work together on the same document
- Publish your notes online
Also Read : markdown
How to Use HackMD
- Go to the HackMD website: Visit https://hackmd.io
- Sign in or continue as guest: You can log in with GitHub or Google or continue without an account.
- Click “New Note”: Start writing your new note.
- Write in Markdown: Use easy Markdown symbols like # for headings, bold for bold text, or * for bullet points.
- See live preview: On the right side, you can see how your text will look.
- Save and share: You can save your note and share the link with others.
Key Features of HackMD
Live Collaboration
Many people can work on the same note at the same time. It updates live, like a group chat.
Markdown Support
HackMD uses full Markdown. It is simple and fast to learn, even for beginners.
Code Friendly
If you write code, HackMD is perfect. It supports code blocks with syntax highlighting.
Slide Mode
Turn your note into a clean slideshow. Great for presentations.
Easy Sharing
Just copy the link and share. You can also make your note private or public.
Export Options
You can export your note as a PDF or Word file or even publish it on GitHub.
Who Uses HackMD?
- Developers: To write project docs or code notes
- Students: To take and share class notes
- Teachers: To create online lessons
- Teams: To plan projects or write reports together
- Writers: To draft blog posts or articles
Is HackMD Safe?
Yes, HackMD is safe to use. It offers different privacy levels:
- Private: Only you can see it.
- Limited: Only people with the link can see
- Public: Anyone can find and read your
HackMD vs. Other Tools
FeatureHackMD Google Docs, Notion, Markdown: Yes, No, Partial Real-time editing Yes. Yes. Yes. Code support: strong, weak, moderate Slide creation: Yes, yes (manual) No Open-source Partially No, no.
Tips for Using HackMD
- Learn basic Markdown (headings, lists, links)
- Use templates to save time.
- Turn on “Presentation Mode” to make slides
- Collaborate in real time for group projects
- Save backups or export to GitHub
Is HackMD Mobile Friendly?
Yes, HackMD works well on phones and tablets. You can edit or read notes on the go. It doesn’t have a mobile app, but the website works smoothly in browsers like Chrome or Safari.
FAQs
Q1: Is HackMD free?
Yes! HackMD offers a free version with most features. Paid plans offer more storage and private team options.
Q2: What is the difference between HackMD and CodiMD?
HackMD is the hosted service. CodiMD is the open-source version that you can install on your own server.
Q3: Can I write offline?
No. HackMD needs internet to work. For offline use, consider Markdown apps like Typora or Obsidian.
Q4: Can I use images in HackMD?
Yes. You can upload or link images using Markdown. Example:
Q5: How do I create a slide presentation?
Click on the menu and choose “Slide Mode.” Use — in your note to make a new slide.
Final Thoughts
HackMD is a smart, easy, and powerful tool for anyone who writes online. Whether you’re taking notes, writing code, or creating a presentation, HackMD makes the process quick and simple. It works great for both solo users and teams.
