Chapter 6. Using Emacs To Edit The Document

To edit in emacs you will use the commands listed in the emacs command appendix, and the printed copy of these commands located in Stright 219. You can also use the emacs editor if you are in a VAX session. To do this, you simply telnet from the VAX to the DECstation using the following syntax. Keep in mind that this is an example, your files may or may not be on Avocet.

telnet avocet.ma.iup.edu

At this time, you will be required to provide your account to the system. When you telnet to the DECstations, it is the same as logging on to them in the lab. When you are logged on, Use UNIX commands to get around the system. Start emacs just like you would in the lab. These next three sections are going to discuss main features of emacs.

Text Editing

It is important to know how to move around in emacs. Therefore, let's go over some of the main commands to the emacs editor. If you are on Avocet, you will be able to place the cursor where you want with the mouse. If you are on another machine, or the VAX, you must use either the arrows, or, use the C- key functions.

If you want to move over characters, to move forward use C-f, to move backward use C-b. Remember that M- is the meta key. That is defined as F11 on the keyboard. It only needs to be pressed once. To move over words, use M-f to go forwards, and M-b to go backwards. To move over lines of text, C-n moves forward, and C-p moves backward. If you want the beginning of a line, C-a will do the trick. To go to the end of the line, use C-e. You can also move over entire sentences. Use M-e to move forward, and M-a to go backward. If you want to skip entire paragraphs, M-] will move forward, and M-[ will move backward.

Spell Checking

If you want to spell check the document, type M-x, then at the bottom command line, you will need to type: spell-buffer. If you just want to check a word, type: M-$

Help

To get help in emacs, use C-h. It is good to know how to bring up the help menu. The help menu is very easy to use and written in a straightforward way.

Go to Chapter 7.

Go back to Chapter 5.

Go back to the Main Screen.