Skip to content
All referenceLists

Markdown Numbered List

Learn how to create numbered (ordered) lists in markdown. Auto-numbering, nesting, starting from a specific number, and platform support.

What is markdown numbered list?

Numbered lists (ordered lists) in markdown start each item with a number followed by a period and a space (1. ). Markdown auto-numbers the output regardless of the numbers you type — all items could be "1." and the rendered list would still count correctly.

Syntax

Basic numbered list

Standard numbered list starting from 1.

Result
  1. First item
  2. Second item
  3. Third item

Lazy numbering

All items can use "1." — markdown auto-numbers them. Easier to reorder.

Result
  1. First item
  2. Second item
  3. Third item

Nested numbered list

Indent with 3 spaces to nest numbered lists.

Result
  1. First item
    1. Sub-item one
    2. Sub-item two
  2. Second item

Platform support

PlatformSupportedNotes
GitHubYes
GitLabYes
DiscordPartialBasic numbered lists, no nesting
SlackYes
RedditYes
Stack OverflowYes
NotionYes
ObsidianYes

Common mistakes

Wrong
1.First item
Right
1. First item

A space after the period is required. Without it, the line is treated as plain text.

Wrong
1) First item
Right
1. First item

Markdown uses "1." (period) for ordered lists, not "1)" (parenthesis). Parentheses won't create a list.

Wrong
1. Item

2. Item
Right
1. Item
2. Item

A blank line between items can split them into separate lists on some parsers. Keep items consecutive.

Tips for numbered list

1Use "1." for every item

Lazy numbering (all "1.") makes it easy to reorder items without renumbering. The renderer handles the counting.

2Start from a specific number

The first number determines the starting count. Starting with "3." will render as 3, 4, 5, etc.

3. Third
4. Fourth
5. Fifth
3Mix with bullet lists

Nest bullet lists inside numbered lists and vice versa for complex outlines.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know.

1

How do I create a numbered list in markdown?

Start each line with a number, period, and space: 1. First, 2. Second, etc. The actual numbers don't matter — markdown auto-numbers them.

Related elements

Try it in the editor

Paste your markdown and see numbered list rendered instantly with professional themes.