How to Convert DDL to Markdown Data Dictionary

DDL is the source of truth for table structure, but it is not always friendly for product managers, analysts, or reviewers. A Markdown data dictionary turns field names, types, and comments into a readable table that can be used in documentation.

Why Convert DDL to Markdown?

DDL statements like CREATE TABLE are designed for databases, not humans. They contain technical syntax that non-technical stakeholders cannot easily read. Converting to Markdown creates a clean, readable format that works in any documentation system.

Recommended format

| Field | Type | Description |
| --- | --- | --- |
| order_id | STRING | Order ID |
| user_id | BIGINT | Reference to users table |
| total | DECIMAL | Order total in USD |

How It Works

The converter parses CREATE TABLE statements and extracts three pieces of information for each column: the field name, the data type, and the comment (if present). It outputs a Markdown table with these columns.

Adding Comments to DDL

To get the most value from the converter, add COMMENT clauses to your DDL:

CREATE TABLE orders (
  order_id BIGINT COMMENT 'Unique order ID',
  user_id BIGINT COMMENT 'User reference',
  total DECIMAL(10,2) COMMENT 'Total in USD'
);

Try the converter

Use the free DDL to Markdown converter to generate documentation from CREATE TABLE statements. Paste your DDL and get formatted Markdown instantly.

Where to Use

Project README files and documentation
Wiki pages for team reference
Code review descriptions for migration PRs
API documentation with schema references