Editing Files from the Command Line

nano

• Very simple and easy
• to open a file: nano <file-name>
• Ctrl + O: Write changes
• Ctrl + K: Cut current line
• Ctrl + U: Uncut and past at current cursor
• Ctrl + W: Search for keyword
• Ctrl + X: Exit

vi

• Very fast and powerful, but steep learning curve
• open file: vi <file-name>
• I Get into Insert-text mode
• Esc Get into Command mode
• DD delete line
• YY copy line
• P Paste clipboard contents
• X remove content under cursor
• :w write to disk
• :q! exit without writing
• :wq! Save file and quit

Relevant Note(s): Linux Basics