Squarespace Markdown Blocks Guide
TL;DR:
- Markdown blocks let you format text using simple Markdown syntax in Squarespace
- You can create lists, links, bold text, italics, and quotes through the block editor
- Available in both Squarespace 7.0 and 7.1 versions
- Use code blocks instead for HTML, CSS, or JavaScript
- Squarespace supports adding Markdown blocks but won't help with complex Markdown coding
How to Add a Markdown Block
Adding a Markdown block works the same way whether you're using a computer or the Squarespace app.
- Edit the page or post where you want to add the block
- Click 'Add Block' or the '+' icon where you want to insert content
- Select 'Markdown' from the block menu
Working with Markdown Content
Once you've added your Markdown block, click the pencil icon to open the editor. You can type directly into the editor or paste pre-formatted Markdown text.
The toolbar gives you quick access to common formatting options:
- Bold and italic text
- Bulleted and numbered lists
- Links
- Headings
- Block quotes
Important for Squarespace 7.0 users: You must click 'Apply' to save your changes. Squarespace 7.1 saves automatically.
Settings and Common Issues
Making Markdown Your Default Editor
If you prefer working in Markdown for all your text content:
- Go to your site's Developer tools panel
- Find 'Default Text Editor'
- Select 'Markdown Editor'
- Click 'Save'
Fixing Cursor Alignment Problems
Sometimes the cursor doesn't line up properly with your text while editing. This happens occasionally in the Markdown editor. To fix it, click inside the Markdown box and press Enter. The cursor should realign with your text.
What Markdown Blocks Can't Do
Markdown blocks handle text formatting, but they won't process HTML, CSS, or JavaScript. If you need to add custom code, use a code block instead.
The Markdown support in Squarespace covers basic formatting. For advanced Markdown features or complex syntax, you might need to test whether your specific formatting works as expected.
FAQs
Can I use Markdown blocks in all versions of Squarespace?
Yes, both Squarespace 7.0 and 7.1 support Markdown blocks.
Can I add HTML or JavaScript inside a Markdown block?
No. Markdown blocks only process Markdown syntax. Use code blocks for HTML, CSS, or JavaScript.
How do I change my default text editor to Markdown?
Go to Developer tools, select 'Default Text Editor', choose 'Markdown Editor', and save your changes.
Do I need to know Markdown syntax to use these blocks?
Not necessarily. The toolbar provides point-and-click formatting for common elements. However, knowing basic Markdown syntax gives you more control over your formatting.
Jargon Buster
Markdown Language: A simple formatting syntax that converts plain text into formatted content using symbols like asterisks for bold text and hashes for headings.
Block Editor: Squarespace's content management system where you add, remove, and modify different types of content blocks on your pages.
Cursor Alignment: When your text cursor appears in the wrong position relative to your text, making editing difficult.
Wrap-up
Markdown blocks give you more control over text formatting than the standard text editor, especially if you're comfortable with basic Markdown syntax. They work well for content that needs consistent formatting or when you're copying text from other Markdown sources.
For straightforward text content, the regular text editor might be simpler. But if you want more precise control over formatting, or you're already familiar with Markdown, these blocks are worth exploring.
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