Why use ASCII in a README?
ASCII headers load instantly, work in plain markdown, and give technical projects a recognizable terminal feel without relying on external images.
Markdown format
```text YOUR ASCII HEADER ```
Best fit
- CLI tools
- Retro or hacker-ish repos
- Portfolio README files
- Embedded utilities and scripts
Practical advice
Keep line width reasonable. A README banner that looks good on your ultrawide monitor may look like wreckage on a phone.