Getting Started
How do I install BluePad?
Download the MSI file from
bluepad.work and run it. If Windows SmartScreen shows a warning, click "More info" then "Run anyway". BluePad is safe — it's built on open-source technology.
What's the difference between Free and Pro?
Free: Up to 3 tabs, Classic + Dark theme, JSON/YAML editing, auto-save, find & replace.
Pro ($10.99, one-time): Unlimited tabs, all 5 themes, focus mode, HTML/PDF export. 14-day free trial included.
How do I activate a Pro license?
Go to Settings > Activate License, paste your license key (format: BP-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX), and click Activate. You can use it on up to 3 devices.
Features
Which file formats are supported?
Markdown: .md, .markdown, .mdx (WYSIWYG editor)
JSON: .json, .jsonc (syntax highlighting + auto-format)
YAML: .yaml, .yml (syntax highlighting + auto-format)
Text: .txt, .log, .env, .ini, .conf
How do I auto-format JSON/YAML?
Open a .json or .yaml file, then press Ctrl+Shift+F or go to Edit > Format.
How do I use the dark theme?
Go to View > Theme: Dark. Dark and Classic themes are free for all users.
Does BluePad save my work automatically?
Yes. Auto-save runs every 30 seconds for files that have been saved before. You can toggle it in File > Auto Save. All settings, open tabs, and sidebar state persist when you restart the app.
Keyboard Shortcuts
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|
| Ctrl+N | New file |
| Ctrl+O | Open file |
| Ctrl+S | Save |
| Ctrl+Shift+S | Save As |
| Ctrl+W | Close tab |
| Ctrl+Tab | Next tab |
| Ctrl+/ | Toggle source mode |
| Ctrl+F | Find |
| Ctrl+H | Find & Replace |
| Ctrl+Shift+F | Format (JSON/YAML) |
| Ctrl+=/-/0 | Font size |
| F11 | Focus mode (Pro) |
Troubleshooting
Windows SmartScreen blocks the installer
This happens because BluePad doesn't have a code signing certificate yet. Click "More info" then "Run anyway". The app is safe.
How do I request a refund?
Go to
bluepad.work/support and select "Refund Request". Include your email and we'll process it within 1-2 business days.
How do I move my license to another computer?
On the old computer: Settings > Activate License > Deactivate. Then activate on the new computer with the same key. Max 3 devices.