Encode vs. Decode
In "Encode" mode, the text you type is converted so that special characters (&, <, >, quotes) show up as HTML entities (&, <, >, ", '), keeping them from breaking a page's markup. In "Decode" mode, the process runs in reverse: named entities (like &) and numeric entities (like é) are converted back into the original character.
When to use the non-ASCII option
Check this option when you need accented letters, symbols, and emoji to also become numeric entities — useful when pasting text into older systems, emails, or formats that only accept plain ASCII.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which characters get converted into HTML entities?
By default, the characters with special meaning in HTML: &, <, >, double quotes, and single quotes. With the non-ASCII option checked, accented letters, symbols, and emoji are also converted into numeric entities.
Why encode characters like &, <, > and quotes?
These characters have special meaning in HTML, and if inserted unescaped into a page they can break the markup or open the door to code injection. Converting them into entities makes sure they show up as literal text.
What does the non-ASCII character option do?
Checking this option also converts accented letters, symbols, and emoji into numeric entities (like é for "é"), which is useful for compatibility with older systems or limited character encodings.
Is the text I type sent to a server?
No. Encoding and decoding happen entirely in your browser, without sending the content to any server.
