tomevault-io Markdown Topic Normalizer
Purpose
Standardize notes that use literal topic markers like \# ... and leading *... / * ... as pseudo-headings.
When To Use
- A note uses
\#to denote a topic start. - A note uses leading
*/\*as item-level topic markers (not intended as list bullets).
Core Rules
- Never edit inside fenced code blocks
- Skip all lines between opening and closing fences (
```or~~~).
- Normalize escaped hash topic markers
^\\#\s*(.+)$-> heading (##or###based on file style)^\\#\s*$-> blank line^(#{1,6})\s+\\#\s*(.+)$-> keep same heading level, remove escaped hash
- Normalize leading star topic markers (file-level decision)
- If file clearly uses star-prefixed topic items:
^\*+\s*(.+)$-> heading (###by default)^\\\*+\s*(.+)$-> heading (###by default)- Empty marker-only lines -> blank line
- Do not convert normal bullet lists in files where
*is used as actual list syntax.
- Handle wrapped marker variants
- If content appears as italic-wrapped markers (e.g.
*\# title*), strip wrappers and normalize.
Heading Level Heuristic
- Prefer
##if the note already uses##for top-level topics. - Otherwise use
###to avoid flattening document structure.
Verification
After conversion, confirm no marker remnants outside code fences:
- no literal escaped hash topics remain:
^\\# - no escaped hash directly under headings:
^#{1,6}\s+\\# - no leftover star markers (if star conversion was intended):
^\\?\*\s*\S
Also spot-check beginning + a middle section for readability.
Safety
- Preserve original prose content; only change marker syntax.
- Avoid broad global replacements without line-anchored patterns.
- Keep changes minimal and deterministic.
Converted and distributed by TomeVault — claim your Tome and manage your conversions.