Show HN: Nash, I made a standalone note with single HTML file

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

What Nash Is and Why It’s Interesting

  • Interpreted by commenters as a single-page WYSIWYG HTML editor packaged as one self‑contained HTML file (HTML+CSS+JS).
  • You write directly in the page (like a simple Google Doc), then save/download that exact page; the file itself remains editable and can be shared.
  • Main use cases mentioned:
    • Quick standalone notes, splash pages, invites, simple download pages, local wikis, lightweight test frontends for backend dev.
    • Static blogging or drafting posts without dealing with heavier tooling (e.g., Jekyll).

Comparisons and Ecosystem

  • Frequently compared to TiddlyWiki and Feather Wiki; similar “single HTML file” idea but Nash focuses more on standalone page/document than interconnected ideas.
  • Other similar efforts mentioned: nullboard, kvak.io, tabnotes, chillmd (markdown editor), local HTML apps built with bundlers, Webstrates/MyWebstrates, and personal single-file tools (dashboards, log viewers, mood boards, slides).

Technical Aspects

  • Runs entirely client-side using embedded JavaScript; no server required.
  • Centered on contenteditable=true for in-place editing, which several people praise as powerful but underused.
  • Discussion around JS from filesystem:
    • Inline scripts generally work from file URLs; type="module" doesn’t.
  • Some ask about support for browser filesystem APIs and local storage for more persistent/local-first behavior.

Browser & Platform Behavior

  • Reports of issues on mobile (Android Chrome buttons, iOS file app not running JS, Mobile Safari selection/formatting quirks).
  • Some desktop browser quirks: Firefox “Save as HTML-only” not preserving edits, undo (Ctrl+Z) not working reliably.

UX and Feature Feedback

  • Suggestions:
    • Auto-edit mode for local files vs read-only for HTTP(S) with override options.
    • Close-warning on unsaved changes (partly already present).
    • Clarify/save options (Save vs Share; read-only export vs editable).
    • Better link creation from selected text, basic list/table tools, clearer naming (“document with built-in editor” vs “note”).

Philosophical / Meta Discussion

  • Appreciation for:
    • Single-file, no-framework, offline-capable apps.
    • Resisting subscription bloat for simple tasks.
  • Broader side threads:
    • “HTML is underrated”; many apps and editors are effectively HTML.
    • Debate over VS Code/electron-based editors vs “native” editors.
    • Comment that embedding the editor in every saved file is “virus-like,” with both fascination and security concern implied.