Editor

Editor: an application to write or modify files that only contain plain text, similar to a typewritten page. An editor doesn't support any formatting (like different fonts, spacings etc.). It's main use is for simple notes or for program files.

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Editors usually have a text area, where text can be written at the current input position (the cursor, indicated by a special symbol). Using the mouse one can position the cursor anywhere and insert or delete text at that point. If the text doesn't fit into the text area, special slider (scrollbars) appear, which allow to move the displayed area over the text.

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Further editor commands can be reached via the menues or alternatively via special key combinations (e.g. Control-X).

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A basic feature is to mark a part of the text by dragging with the mouse. The following three funtions can be applied to marked text:

Command Function
Cut delete the marked text and copy it into an internal buffer (clipboard)
Paste insert the content of the clipboard at the cursor position
Copy put the text into the clipboard without deleting it

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Other important commands are

Command Function
New create a new text file
Open load an existing text file for editing
Save save the new text into the file
Close leave the editor
Search find a special word or string
Replace replace one (or all) appearances of
  a string by another one
Help explain the editor commands

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Some editors have very sophisticated features, especially for supporting the creation of program files.

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The simple standard editor for Windows is called notepad:

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For CDE the standard editor is called dtpad:

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Peter Junglas 8.3.2000