markitdown

Convert PDFs, DOCX, PPTX, XLSX, images, and more into Markdown.

38|3|Updated May 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing --skill markitdown-chanw-research
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: markitdown
Source: https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing/tree/main/skills/document-handling/markitdown
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Chanw-research/claude-code-paper-writing --skill markitdown-chanw-research

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Convert documents from a wide range of formats into Markdown for reliable, token-efficient processing by large language models and automation pipelines.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Converts PDFs, Word, slides, spreadsheets, images (with OCR), and more into clean Markdown
  • Supports optional AI-enhanced image descriptions and schematic generation guidance
  • Integrates into research and publishing workflows for batch processing and archiving

Quick Start

Install MarkItDown and run a conversion on a sample file such as document.pdf to produce a Markdown output.

Frequently Asked Questions about markitdown

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I convert PDFs and DOCX files into Markdown for AI processing?

To convert PDFs and DOCX files into Markdown, MarkItDown transforms diverse document formats into clean Markdown, ensuring reliable and token-efficient processing by large language models and downstream automation pipelines.

Can I extract text from images using OCR and generate Markdown automatically?

Yes, you can extract text from images using OCR to generate Markdown automatically. MarkItDown supports image conversion with OCR and offers optional AI-enhanced image descriptions for improved context in your output.

What is the best way to batch convert documents like PPTX and XLSX into Markdown?

The best way to batch convert documents like PPTX and XLSX into Markdown is using MarkItDown, which integrates into research and publishing workflows to support batch processing and archival workflows efficiently.

Does MarkItDown work with audio transcripts, HTML, and YouTube URLs?

MarkItDown works with audio transcripts, HTML, CSV, JSON, XML, ZIP archives, and YouTube URLs. It detects file formats from extensions or MIME types to convert these diverse sources into Markdown.

Are there limitations when converting scanned PDFs or complex spreadsheets to Markdown?

When converting scanned PDFs or complex spreadsheets to Markdown, limitations depend on OCR accuracy and structural complexity. MarkItDown applies optional AI-enhanced descriptions and plugin integrations to improve conversion fidelity.

Do I need Azure integrations or plugins to convert documents to Markdown?

You do not need Azure integrations or plugins to convert documents to Markdown, but MarkItDown optionally supports them. These integrations enhance capabilities like AI-driven image descriptions and schematic generation guidance.