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Overview

Amber provides a complete rich text editor that works natively with markdown. You have three ways to format your text:
  1. Rich text toolbar - Click formatting buttons
  2. Keyboard shortcuts - Quick formatting with keys
  3. Markdown syntax - Type markdown directly, watch it format in real-time
All three approaches work together seamlessly. Your text is stored as clean markdown but displays beautifully in the editor.

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Native Markdown Support

Type markdown syntax and watch it format instantly: Bold 
Type **your text** or use ⌘ + B
Result: your text Italic 
Type *your text* or use ⌘ + I
Result: your text Underline 
Type ~~your text~~ for strikethrough or use ⌘ + U for underline
Result: your text Headers 
# Heading 1 (⌘ + 1)
## Heading 2 (⌘ + 2)
### Heading 3 (⌘ + 3)
Lists 
- Bullet point (type - and space)
- Another point

1. Numbered item (type 1. and space)
2. Second item
Code blocks 
Type backticks: `inline code` for code in text
Or triple backticks for a code block:
code block here 

**Links**
Link text or use ⌘ + K 

**Blockquotes**
Type > at the start of a line Your quote here 

<Tip>
Start typing markdown syntax and Amber formats it as you go. Your text is stored as clean markdown but displays beautifully—no need to choose between format and readability.
</Tip>

## Quick Formatting

Select text to access:
- Basic formatting (bold, italic, underline)
- Text alignment
- Headers and styles
- Color highlighting
- AI context options

## Highlighting Colors

Highlight text for:
- Important passages
- Research notes
- Revision marks
- Character dialogue
- Scene markers

## Using the Menu

1. Select text
2. Choose formatting from pop-up menu
3. Or use keyboard shortcuts:
   - `⌘ + B` - Bold
   - `⌘ + I` - Italic
   - `⌘ + U` - Underline
   - `⌘ + L` - Add to AI context

## AI Context

While the `⌘ + L` UI box is replaced:
- Shortcut still works for AI context
- Select text and use menu option
- Or use keyboard shortcut
- Context is preserved

## Customization

Personalize your experience:
- Choose highlight colors
- Set default styles
- Configure menu options
- Save preferences

## Pro Tips

- Use consistent highlighting colors
- Combine with keyboard shortcuts
- Create style guides
- Use colors for different purposes

## Storing as Markdown

All your formatted text is automatically stored as clean markdown:

- **What you type**: Markdown syntax or use the toolbar
- **What you see**: Beautifully formatted text
- **What's stored**: Standard markdown (`.md` files)
- **Why it matters**: Your text is portable, editable in any editor, and future-proof

You never have to think about "converting" between formats—Amber handles it automatically.

## Related Features

- [File Format & Storage](/user-guides/file-format) - Learn about markdown storage
- [Paragraph Formatting](/user-guides/paragraph-formatting) - Multi-paragraph styling
- [Amber Copilot](/user-guides/amber-copilot) - Format text with AI help