How to Display OpenAI API Markdown Formatting in Bubble Apps

Converting OpenAI API responses with markdown formatting like **bold** and *italic* into properly formatted text in your Bubble app requires a specific approach, as Bubble doesn't natively support markdown syntax.

Method 1: Using a Markdown Plugin (Recommended)

The most straightforward way to display markdown formatting in Bubble is to use a dedicated plugin. Install a plugin like Markdown Pro from the Bubble plugin marketplace. This plugin converts markdown text into HTML, which can then be displayed using Bubble's HTML element.

Here's how to implement it: First, add the markdown plugin element to your page. This loads the necessary code libraries that handle the conversion process. Next, configure the plugin to receive your OpenAI API response text as its source. The plugin will automatically convert markdown syntax like **bold** and *italic* into proper HTML formatting.

Finally, use an HTML element on your page to display the converted output. Set the HTML element's content to reference the plugin's converted result. This approach works particularly well for complex markdown content including tables, headers, and lists.

Method 2: Request BB Code from OpenAI

Bubble natively supports BB code formatting, which is similar to HTML but uses square brackets instead of angle brackets. You can modify your OpenAI prompt to request responses in BB code format rather than standard markdown.

In your API call prompt, add instructions like: "Respond with rich text formatting using BB codes to add emphasis to key parts." OpenAI will then return text formatted with [b]bold[/b] and [i]italic[/i] tags instead of markdown syntax.

When you display this BB code text in a regular Bubble text element, it will automatically render the formatting correctly. This method works seamlessly with Bubble's rich text editor and doesn't require any additional plugins.

Method 3: HTML Output with Custom CSS

For maximum control over formatting, you can request HTML output from OpenAI and style it with custom CSS. Modify your prompt to request HTML formatting: "Respond with rich text formatting using HTML to add emphasis."

Display the HTML response using Bubble's HTML element. To improve the styling, add an ID attribute to your HTML element (enable this in Settings > General) and write custom CSS to style headers, paragraphs, and other elements.

Add your CSS in the page header or in Settings > SEO/Meta Tags for site-wide styling. Target your HTML element's ID and define styles for h1, h2, p, strong, and other HTML tags to create a polished appearance.

Best Practices for Markdown in No Code Apps

When working with AI-generated content in your Bubble app, consistency is key. Test your prompts thoroughly to ensure OpenAI returns reliably formatted responses. Consider using JSON-safe formatting in your API calls to prevent syntax errors.

For dynamic content that updates frequently, the plugin approach offers the most flexibility. For static content or when you need precise control over styling, the HTML method with custom CSS provides the best results.