# Write your first note

Section: Start here
Plan: Free
Works in: Chrome, Web, Phone, Desktop
Updated: 2026-11-11
Page: https://leafnotes.co/guide/first-note

**Answer:** Type in New note, then press Add note. Leaf saves as you type.

[Screenshot: A new note with a title and a checklist, ready to add]

## Steps

1. Click **New note**, or press `N`.
2. Type a title, then the note.
3. Press **Add note**, or `Ctrl` `Enter` (`⌘` `Enter` on a Mac).

A title is optional.

## Formatting

| Type | You get |
|---|---|
| `#` then a space | A heading |
| `-` then a space | A bullet list |
| `1.` then a space | A numbered list |
| `[]` then a space | A checkbox |
| `Ctrl` `B` / `Ctrl` `I` | Bold / italic |
| `Ctrl` `K` in a note | A link |

`Tab` indents a list item. `Shift` `Tab` brings it back. On a Mac, use `⌘` for `Ctrl`.