Rich text editor.
Edits text with formatting such as headings, emphasis, and lists.
See it in context
What it is
A rich text editor combines a writing surface with formatting commands. The editing model must preserve selection when a command is applied and communicate what formatting is active.
When to use it
Keep common formatting controls accessible and preserve text selection during formatting actions.
Know the difference
A text area edits plain text; a rich text editor stores document structure or formatting.
Across platforms
Web
Use a native button for an action and an anchor for navigation. Preserve keyboard activation and a visible focus indicator.
macOS · Windows · Linux
Keep pointer, keyboard, and focus behavior consistent. Common commands can additionally expose a menu item or keyboard shortcut.
Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.