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iA Writer Not Opening .md Files by Default

Workaround available Mac, Windows Updated October 21, 2026

Quick answer

If double-clicking a Markdown or text file doesn't open iA Writer, the file extension isn't associated with it. Change the default app for .md and .txt in Finder or Windows Settings.

Most likely fix: Set the default on Mac.

Symptoms

Double-clicking .md or .txt files opens another app or nothing.

Why it happens

  • File extension associated with another app
  • Default app reset after an update or reinstall

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

  1. 1. Set the default on Mac

    1. In Finder, select the file and press Cmd-I (Get Info)
    2. Under Open with, choose iA Writer
    3. Click Change All…
    4. Repeat for .txt and other extensions

  2. 2. Set the default on Windows

    1. Open Settings > Apps > Default apps
    2. Choose iA Writer for .md (and .txt if you want)

This guide also covers

  • ia writer default app
  • ia writer open md files
  • ia writer double click file

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