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Markdown vs Org Mode: What are the differences?
Introduction
Markdown is a lightweight markup language used for formatting text on websites, while Org Mode is a document organization mode in Emacs. Although both Markdown and Org Mode are used for text formatting, they have several key differences.
Syntax Complexity: Markdown has a simpler and more intuitive syntax compared to Org Mode. Markdown uses simple symbols like hashtags for headings, asterisks for bold and italics, and hyphens for lists. On the other hand, Org Mode uses a complex syntax that includes various special characters, keywords, and indentation for structuring documents, scheduling deadlines, and adding timestamps.
Features and Functionality: Markdown is primarily designed for text formatting and basic document structuring. It focuses on simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for writing simple blog posts, documentation, and web content. Org Mode, on the other hand, offers advanced features such as task management, note-taking, agenda generation, spreadsheet integration, and much more. It is widely used by Emacs users for organizing their personal and professional lives.
Exportability: Markdown is widely supported and can be easily exported to various output formats like HTML, PDF, and Word documents using different tools and converters. It provides flexibility for publishing and sharing documents across different platforms and devices. Org Mode, on the other hand, is primarily used within Emacs, although it can also be exported to different formats. However, exporting Org Mode files may require more configuration and customization compared to Markdown.
Workflow Integration: Markdown is commonly used with static site generators, content management systems, and blogging platforms. It seamlessly integrates with tools like Jekyll, Hugo, and WordPress, making it easier to create and manage website content. Org Mode, on the other hand, is mainly used within the Emacs environment and provides a powerful and extensible ecosystem for writing, organizing, and automating various tasks. It enables users to have a holistic workflow within a single application.
Collaboration and Version Control: Markdown files are plain text files that can be easily shared and collaborated on via version control systems like Git. This makes it easier for multiple users to collaborate on the same document, track changes, and manage different versions. Org Mode files, on the other hand, are typically stored as Emacs Org files, which may require additional setup and knowledge of Emacs for collaborative editing and version control.
Ease of Learning: Markdown is relatively easy to learn and use, even for those who are new to markup languages. Its minimalistic syntax makes it accessible to a wide range of users, including non-technical writers and bloggers. Org Mode, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve due to its more complex syntax and extensive features. It is primarily used by Emacs power users, programmers, and users who require advanced document organization and workflow management capabilities.
In summary, Markdown is a simple and widely supported markup language for text formatting, ideal for basic document structuring and web content. Org Mode, on the other hand, is a feature-rich document organization mode within Emacs, providing advanced functionality and customization options for users with more complex document management needs.
Pros of Markdown
- Easy formatting345
- Widely adopted246
- Intuitive194
- Github integration132
- Great for note taking41
- Defacto GitHub lingo2
Pros of Org Mode
- Agenda and Calendar1
- Suitable for long documents1
- Portable across platforms1
- Works in CLI via Emacs1
- Export to md, html, odt, LaTeX etc1
- GTD Concept1
- To-Do-Lists/Organiser1
- Note-taking1
- Intuitive1
- Easy formatting1
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Cons of Markdown
- Cannot centralise (HTML code needed)2
- Inconsistend flavours eg github, reddit, mmd etc1
- Limited syntax1
- Not suitable for longer documents1
- Non-extensible1
- No right indentation1
- No underline1
- Unable to indent tables1
Cons of Org Mode
- Not many editors have org mode support other then Emacs1