Markdown provides a simple syntax to apply bold and italic styles. Let’s see how to use each of these styles.
Bold
To make text bold, use two asterisks (**) or two underscores (__) around the text you want to highlight.
**This text is bold**
__This text is also bold__This renders as:
This text is bold
This text is also bold
There can be no space between the ** or __ and the text. It must touch directly. That is, the following syntax will not work for you.
** This text is NOT bold**
__ This text is NOT bold either__It’s a common mistake that can drive you crazy, so remember not to put the whitespace.
Italic
To make text italic, use one asterisk (*) or one underscore (_) around the text you want to highlight.
*This text is italic*
_Esthis text is also italic_This renders as:
This text is italic
Esthis text is also italic
Combined bold and italic
You can combine bold and italic using three asterisks (***) or three underscores (___) around the text.
***This text is bold and italic***
___This text is also bold and italic___This renders as:
This text is bold and italic
This text is also bold and italic
Best Practices Tips
Consistency in syntax: Although Markdown allows us to use various forms of emphasis, it is advisable to choose one of them and use it consistently in your document (Do not mix them up).
For example, I like ** for bold and _ for italic. That way I can easily recognize them. But use your own criteria.
Highlight key information: Use bold to highlight key information and important terms, and italic for titles of works, technical terms, or to provide additional emphasis.
Avoid Excess: Do not overuse bold and italic. Highlighting too many elements can reduce the effect and even make the text harder to read.