In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explore how to work effectively with non-native content in Affinity Publisher, specifically Markdown and PDF files.
This tutorial will cover the entire process, from importing Markdown to exporting a polished PDF with clickable links.
Tutorial
Step 1: Preparing the Markdown Content in Ulysses
- Open your Markdown content in Ulysses or any Markdown editor
- Make any final edits needed to ensure formatting aligns with your intended design
- Preview the content to verify heading structure and other elements
Step 2: Exporting Markdown as PDF
- In Ulysses, click the export button to convert the Markdown content to a PDF
- Adjust any export settings if needed and save the PDF for importing
Step 3: Setting Up Affinity Publisher for Import
- Open your template in Affinity Publisher
- Ensure that you have Master Pages set up for any branding or layout requirements
Step 4: Importing the Cover Page
- Go to File > Place, select your PDF cover file, and click Open
- Click on the page to place the cover or use a picture frame for auto-scaling
Step 5: Importing Multi-Page PDF Content Automatically
- Navigate to File > Place again, and select the tutorial PDF
- Before placing, deselect any picture frames to enable the Autofill feature
- Use the Place Panel to select all pages, then click on your layout to fill automatically
Step 6: Applying Branding and Master Pages
- Select the content pages in the Pages Panel
- Right-click and choose Apply Master, then select the branded Master Page
- Confirm the pages to apply branding for a consistent look
Step 7: Exporting the Finished Document as PDF
- Go to File > Export and select PDF as the export format
- In the export dialog, choose a digital PDF preset to ensure clickable hyperlinks
- Verify that Include Hyperlinks is checked under the Advanced options
Conclusion
Working with non-native content in Affinity Publisher, such as Markdown and PDF, is straightforward when you know the steps. It’s something I do multiple times a week and the features I’ve shared make the difference between being able to create tutorials and not.
If you enjoyed this tutorial and want more tips and tricks, be sure to check out my free training at ElaineGiles.com/VIP. Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss a new tutorial.
If you have any specific tutorial requests, feel free to reach out - I’d love to hear from you!
Thanks for reading and watching, and see you next time!
