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Next: Moving Around Up: Interface Reference Previous: Preferences

Keyboard Shortcuts

Most key presses simply insert a character into the editor (``a'', ``3'', ``('', etc.). Other keys and key combinations act as keyboard shortcuts that move the blinking caret, delete a line, copy the selection, etc. Keyboard shortcuts are usually trigger by key combinations using the Control, Meta, or Command key.

C-key = This means press the Control key, hold it down and then press key and then release them both. For example: C-e (Control-E) moves the blinking caret to the end of the current line.

M-key = Same as C-key, except with the Meta key. Depending on your keyboard, Meta may be called ``Left'', ``Right'' or have a diamond symbol, but it's usually on the bottom row next to the space bar. M-key can also be performed as a two-character sequence: first, strike and release the Escape key, then strike key. Under Windows and MacOS, Meta is only available through the Escape key.

DEL = The Delete key.

SPACE = The Space bar.

Note: On most keyboards, ``<'' and ``>'' are shifted characters. So, to get M->, you actually have to type Meta-Shift->. That is, press and hold down both the Meta and Shift keys, and then strike ``>''.

Note: Many of the key bindings can also be done with menu items.

Under Windows, some of these keybindings are actually standard menu items. Those keybindings will behave according to the menus, unless the Enable keybindings in menus preference is unchecked.

If you are most familiar with Emacs-style key bindings, you should uncheck the Enable keybindings in menus preference. Many of the keybindings below are inspired by Emacs.





PLT