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margin ​

Margin is an open-source, local-first AI writing studio for Markdown users.

Think of it as SillyTavern for story writing: a customizable environment where writers can collaborate with context-aware AI agents, swap models, manage prompts, and build their own creative workflows -- all while keeping their work on their own machine.

Instead of treating AI as a chat window, Margin integrates it directly into the writing process. Draft scenes, brainstorm plots, maintain world lore, rewrite passages, and iterate on ideas inside a distraction-free editor designed for long-form writing.

Why margin? ​

  • Markdown-Native Writing Environment -- A distraction-free editor designed for long-form writing projects and documentation.
  • Runs Locally -- Your manuscripts, notes, and context stay on your machine. No required cloud services or telemetry.
  • Optimized for Local Models -- Works well with lightweight language models and supports Ollama, LM Studio, and OpenAI-compatible providers. Or bring your OpenCode, Claude Code, Codex, or Antigravity subscription.
  • Automatic Context Management -- Organize characters, lore, outlines, and style guides into folders. Margin automatically includes the relevant context for each task.
  • Customizable AI Workflows -- Configure prompts, agents, and writing pipelines to match your process instead of adapting to rigid presets.
  • Interactive Diff Review -- Review AI-generated edits with clear inline diffs before accepting or rejecting changes.
  • Imagine Images -- Describe maps, mood boards, character sketches, or scene references in words and generate them with OpenAI, Stability, FAL, Google Gemini, or local ComfyUI workflows.
  • Workspace Profiles -- Link or scaffold multiple project folders, switch from the sidebar, with optional Git init.

Sections ​

  • Getting Started -- System requirements, installation, and first launch.
  • Configuration -- All settings explained: workspaces, appearance, context, endpoints, harness, images.
  • Writing Guide -- How AI assist works, character profiles, style guides, manifests, custom prompts, and images.
  • Debugging -- Inspecting AI logs and prompts, local telemetry, and fixing common image issues.