> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://learn.withamber.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Text Formatting & Markdown

> Format text using the rich editor, keyboard shortcuts, or native markdown syntax

## 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.

## 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](https://example.com) 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 
```