For researchers · grad students · technical writers

The Markdown editor that doesn't fight you on equations or citations.

Most Markdown editors stop at headings and bullet lists. MDX keeps going: type math the way you'd write it on paper, drop in citations from a real .bib file, and export to Word with a numbered reference list at the end. AI assist is optional, bring your own key.

i.

Math like you'd write it

Inline and block equations, edited in a real visual editor (MathLive). No $$ to escape. The LaTeX is generated for you when you export.

ii.

Real reference management

Import BibTeX, RIS, or CSL-JSON. Cite with [@citekey] from a sidebar picker. The bibliography auto-numbers and appears at the end on export.

iii.

Export that respects your work

DOCX for your supervisor, PDF for submission, HTML for the lab page. All with the same numbered citations and rendered math.

How MDX compares

Honest summary. Pick the tool that fits your workflow.

ToolWYSIWYG bodyWYSIWYG mathCitationsAI assistPrice
MDX✓ (MathLive)✓ (.bib / .ris / CSL)✓ (BYOK)$15 one-time
Zettlrpartialsource LaTeX✓ (.bib via pandoc)Free / OSS
Obsidian + plugins✓ (Live Preview)source LaTeXplugin (Zotero)pluginFree personal
Typorasource LaTeXpandoc-only$14.99 one-time
Overleafsource LaTeX✓ (.bib)add-onFree / from $11/mo

Honest take: if you live in LaTeX with a custom class file and a co-author network, stay in Overleaf. If you live in Zotero and Obsidian, the plugin combo is mature and free. MDX is for the in-between writer: you want the look of a document, the depth of a real academic editor, and you'd like AI assist without yet another subscription.

One app. One price.

$15 one-time. 14-day free trial — no card. 14-day refund — no questions.

Or try free for 14 days first. Sales by Paddle.