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Session 18: The vi Editor

What is vi?

vi (Visual Editor) is a powerful text editor commonly used in Linux and Unix environments. It's known for its efficiency and versatility, especially when working with large text files.

How vi Works: Modes

vi operates in three primary modes:

  1. Command Mode: This is the default mode when you first open vi. You can enter commands to navigate, edit, and save the file.
  2. Insert Mode: Used to insert text directly into the document. You enter this mode by pressing i, a, o, or O.
  3. Visual Mode: Used to select blocks of text for editing or copying.

Shortcuts in Visual Mode

  • ZZ: Save and exit.
  • A: Append text to the end of the current line.
  • o: Open a new line below the current line.
  • O: Open a new line above the current line.
  • u: Undo the last change.
  • yy: Yank (copy) the current line.
  • dd: Delete the current line.
  • p: Paste from the system clipboard.
  • P: Paste before the cursor.
  • d0: Delete from the beginning of the line to the cursor.
  • d$: Delete from the cursor to the end of the line.
  • w: Move the cursor to the beginning of the next word.
  • w <filename>: Save the current file as a new file with the specified name.
  • Character-level commands:
    • x: Delete the character under the cursor.
    • X: Delete the character before the cursor.
    • r: Replace the character under the cursor.
    • yw: Yank (copy) the current word.
    • <num>dw: Delete the specified number of words.

Shortcuts in Command Mode

  • :wq: Write (save) the file and quit.
  • :q!: Quit without saving.
  • :: Enter command mode (you're already in it).
  • /pattern: Search forward for a pattern.
  • ?pattern: Search backward for a pattern.
  • :set nu or set number: Set the number display option (shows line numbers).

Opening Multiple Files in vi

vim file1.txt file2.txt
  • :args: List the open files.
  • :rew: Rewind to the first file.
  • :n: Go to the next file.
  • :syntax on: Enable syntax highlighting.
  • :set all: List all current settings.

Tip

Remember: vi can be intimidating at first, but with practice, you'll become proficient in its powerful features.