# Views and editing mode

Obsidian lets you control how you read and edit notes written in Markdown using views and modes.

• Views toggle between reading and editing your notes.
• Modes control how Markdown appears while you're editing.

# Reading view

Reading view shows your note without Markdown syntax, offering a clean, readable format for focused review.

To switch to Reading view:

• Click the view switcher ( ) in the upper-right corner of the editor.
• Or click the interactive status icon ( or ) in the status bar and select Reading view.
• Or press Ctrl+E (Cmd+E on macOS).

# Editing view

Editing view lets you make changes to your note.

While in Editing view, the Editing mode defines, how Markdown is displayed. You can choose one of two Editing modes: Live Preview or Source mode.

# Live Preview

Live Preview shows formatted text inline while hiding most Markdown syntax. When your cursor enters formatted content, the underlying syntax becomes visible for editing.

To switch to Live Preview:

• Click the view switcher ( ) in the upper-right corner of the editor.
• Or click the interactive status icon ( or ) in the status bar and select Live Preview.
• Or press Ctrl+E (Cmd+E on macOS).
• Or use the command Toggle Reading view.

# Source mode

Source mode displays all Markdown syntax exactly as written. Use it if you prefer plain text or need precise formatting control.

To switch to Source mode:

• Click the interactive status icon ( or ) in the status bar and select Source mode.