To call Emacs a text editor is probably an understatement. You can
perform virtually any computing task from within Emacs, and it almost
makes coffee for you.
Here just be bare basics that will enable you to write and edit your
files. In the Unix shell, type
emacs &
to start Emacs. Leave out the ampersand if you are not in an
X-windows environment. To exit Emacs, type C-x C-c
(Control-x followed by Control-c).
Help!
- Undo the last change:
C-/
- If you have pressed some keys and Emacs starts acting
strange:
C-g will abort the command and get you
back into normal editing mode.
- What is this key doing? Type
C-h k and then the
key(s) you wonder about. You will get an explanation.
- What is the command for...? Type
C-h a and enter
a keyword. You'll get a list of commands and their key
bindings that match the keyword.
- Further help: Type
C-h C-h for further options.
Or Select from the extensive ``Help'' pull-down menu.
File Operations
- To create a new file, or to visit an existing file:
C-x C-f. You will be prompted for the name of the
file.
- To save the file you are editing (the ``buffer'') under its
current name:
C-x C-s.
- To save the file you are editing (the ``buffer'') under a new
name:
C-x C-w.
- To insert a file into your current document:
C-x i.
Using the Mouse
Emacs makes use of all three mouse buttons.
- To place the cursor (``point''): Click the left button.
- To copy a piece of text: Place the ``point'' at one end, and
click the right button on the other end.
(This actually sets
the ``point'' at the other, and an invisible ``mark'' at the
first end; the text in between is called the ``region'')
- To delete a piece of text: Same as for copying, but
double-click the right mouse button.
- To paste the text previously copied or deleted: Click the
middle mouse button.
Command Reference Card
External Emacs Links