Command line text editors
Command line text editors are text editors that can be used directly from the command line interface (CLI) without a graphical user interface (GUI). They are essential tools for developers, system administrators, and power users who work primarily in the command line environment.
The most common command line text editors are:
-
Vim: Vim is a highly configurable text editor built to enable efficient text editing. It is an improved version of the Vi editor distributed with most UNIX systems.
-
Nano: Nano is a simple, easy-to-use command line text editor. It is a good choice for beginners who find Vim or Emacs too complex.
Writing a commit in vim
- Press i to enter insert mode.
- Type your commit message.
- Press Esc to exit insert mode.
- Type
:wqto save and exit.
Command line text editors differ from GUI text editors in several ways:
-
Interface: Command line editors don't have a graphical interface and rely on keyboard shortcuts and commands for navigation and editing.
-
Remote access: Command line editors can be used over SSH or telnet to edit files on remote servers, while GUI editors typically require a desktop environment or X11 forwarding.
-
Resource usage: Command line editors generally use fewer system resources than their GUI counterparts, making them suitable for use on servers or low-powered devices.
-
Steep learning curve: Command line editors, especially Vim and Emacs, have a steeper learning curve compared to GUI editors due to their reliance on keyboard shortcuts and commands.