The nano text editor

nano is the name of the text editor we mostly use when logged into the Minds terminal. It is a reasonably easy to use editor, similar to notepad on windows. However, when logged into minds we don't have a mouse therefore there are keyboard shortcuts for everything. You can position the cursor using the arrow keys.

Starting nano

To run the text edior simply type nano and press return. If you wish to open a file in it run "nano filename" (e. g. "nano index.html" or nano "helloworld.java"). This should display the file onscreen. Note: If you run "nano filename" and the file doesn't exist , nano will create it for you.

The nano commands

The commands are all run using the control key and some letter on the keyboard. We have broken them into 2 section s , file commands ( i.e. open close save etc) and editing commands (i.e. search and replace, copy and paste). When you see "Ctrl X" it means press control and the X key.

File Commands

Ctrl O
: This saves the file. It will ask you which file name you would like (offering the current name as default). Eithe r press return to accept the current name, or type a new name.
Ctrl X: This commmand is to exit the program. If you have unsaved changes it will ask you do you wish to save them.
Ctrl R: This opens a file in a new "buffer". i.e it will start a new nano and open the file in that one. Type the name of the file you wish to open and press return

Editing Commands

Ctrl K: This is the Cut Commant. It will cut the current line and store it for future pasting (if you wish).
Ctrl U: This is the UnCut (aka Paste) command. So, to copy and paste a piece of text , cut all the lines you wish (i.e. k eep pressing control K until you have it all) , then using the arrow keys position the cursor where you wish to paste, and press Ctrl U
Ctrl W: This is the Search Command (W for Where Is), useful for finding things in large text files.
Ctrl \: This is the search and replace command. Just type your search query press return, your replacement, return and it 'll walk you through each one ( similar to most word processors).
Ctrl G: Pressing Control G brings up the help menu

You will notice that many of the above can be seen at the bottom of the screen when running nano.