What is supabase.mdx?

supabase.mdx is a file that mixes regular Markdown text with small pieces of React code (JSX). It is used by the Supabase team to write documentation pages that can include live, interactive components while still being easy to read and edit like normal text files.

Let's break it down

  • .mdx - the file extension tells the build system that the file contains both Markdown and JSX.
  • Markdown - a simple way to format headings, lists, links, and code blocks without needing HTML.
  • JSX (React) - tiny React components that can be dropped into the page, for example a button that runs a Supabase query right in the docs.
  • Supabase specific parts - the Supabase docs add their own components (like <CodeBlock>, <AuthDemo>, etc.) that make it easy to show real‑world examples.

Why does it matter?

Because it lets writers create rich, interactive documentation without switching between separate files or languages. Readers can see code, run it, and understand how Supabase works all in one place, which speeds up learning and reduces confusion.

Where is it used?

  • The official Supabase documentation website.
  • Community tutorials that want to embed live Supabase examples.
  • Internal knowledge bases for Supabase engineers.
  • Blog posts that need interactive code snippets.

Good things about it

  • Keeps text and interactive code together, so updates stay in sync.
  • Uses familiar Markdown syntax, so non‑developers can still contribute.
  • React components can be reused across many pages, saving time.
  • Works well with version control (Git) because it’s just a plain text file.
  • Improves the learning experience with live demos.

Not-so-good things

  • Requires a build step (e.g., Next.js or Vite) to turn the .mdx into a web page, adding complexity.
  • Writers need to learn a bit of JSX, which can be a hurdle for pure writers.
  • Tied to the React ecosystem; you can’t use the same file directly with other frameworks.
  • Large numbers of interactive components can slow down page load if not optimized.
  • Debugging errors can be harder because they may come from either Markdown or JSX parts.