How to Use the 'Show-Markdown' Command in PowerShell (with examples)

The Show-Markdown command is a utility in PowerShell that enables users to render and view Markdown content either directly within the console or through a web browser. It leverages VT100 escape sequences for console rendering or employs HTML when displaying through a browser. This tool is particularly useful for developers and content creators who need to visualize Markdown documentation without requiring additional third-party applications.

Use Case 1: Render Markdown to the Console from a File

Code:

Show-Markdown -Path path\to\file

Motivation:

This use case is ideal for developers or technical writers who work extensively with Markdown files and need a quick preview of their content without leaving the comfort of their terminal. By using this command, users can quickly ensure their Markdown syntax is correct or review the document’s structure before final publication or sharing. It’s a time-efficient way to verify changes in Markdown files that are part of larger projects, such as a README file in a software repository.

Explanation:

• Show-Markdown: This is the core command that executes the rendering of the Markdown content.
• -Path: This parameter specifies the file path to the Markdown file you want to render. It’s important to replace path\to\file with the actual path where your Markdown file is stored.

Example Output:

Upon execution, the console will display a formatted view of the Markdown content, showcasing headings, lists, links, and other Markdown elements with appropriate styling using VT100 escape sequences. This allows for an aesthetic readability within the terminal environment.

Use Case 2: Render Markdown to the Console from a String

Code:

"# Markdown content" | Show-Markdown

Motivation:

This use case is particularly beneficial for those who prefer on-the-fly note-taking or need to check how a short segment of Markdown appears when rendered. Whether you are jotting down quick notes during a meeting or testing small Markdown snippets, this method provides a fast and interactive way to see Markdown formatting in the console without needing to create a separate file.

Explanation:

• The string "# Markdown content" represents the inline Markdown text you wish to render. It can include any valid Markdown syntax, not just headers.
• The pipe operator | is used to pass the string content directly into the Show-Markdown command, which processes the input and renders it accordingly.

Example Output:

Executing this code will result in the PowerShell console displaying the Markdown content within the terminal. For instance, if the content includes a Markdown header, it will be bold or larger in size, mimicking how a browser might interpret it, thereby providing immediate visual feedback.

Use Case 3: Open Markdown File in a Browser

Code:

Show-Markdown -Path path\to\file -UseBrowser

Motivation:

Opening a Markdown file in a web browser offers a more visually rich and detailed rendering compared to console output. This is especially useful when a user requires an accurate depiction of how the Markdown will appear in an HTML-rendered document, complete with CSS styles. It is advantageous when preparing documentation for online publishing, ensuring the final appearance is as intended.

Explanation:

• Show-Markdown: The central command for rendering.
• -Path: Specifies the path to the Markdown file. It should be replaced with the location of the file you wish to view.
• -UseBrowser: This flag triggers the rendering of the Markdown content in the default web browser as HTML, allowing for a faithful representation of how the document will appear on web platforms.

Example Output:

Upon execution, the user’s default web browser will open, displaying the Markdown content. The content will be styled according to browser standards for web-centric Markdown rendering. Headers, lists, images, and code blocks will be formatted appropriately as they would appear on a webpage or documentation site.

Conclusion:

The Show-Markdown command in PowerShell is a powerful tool for those who work with Markdown documents frequently. By leveraging this command, users can efficiently render Markdown content from files or strings directly in the console, or even open them in a browser for a more detailed view. Whether used for quick checks or detailed previews, Show-Markdown enhances productivity by providing immediate access to Markdown renderings without the need for additional tools or software.