Most key presses simply insert a character into the editor (``a'', ``3'', ``('', etc.). Other keys and key combinations act as keyboard shortcuts that move the blinking caret, delete a line, copy the selection, etc. Keyboard shortcuts are usually trigger by key combinations using the Control, Meta, or Command key.
C- key
= This means press the Control key, hold it
down and then press
key
and then release them
both. For example: C-e (Control-E) moves the blinking caret to the end
of the current line.
M- key
= Same as C-
key
, except with the
Meta key. Depending on your keyboard, Meta may be called ``Left'',
``Right'' or have a diamond symbol, but it's usually on the bottom row next
to the space bar. M-
key
can also be performed as a
two-character sequence: first, strike and release the Escape key, then
strike
key
. Under Windows and MacOS, meta is only
available through the Escape key.
DEL = The Delete key.
SPACE = The Space bar.
Note: On most keyboards, ``<'' and ``>'' are shifted characters. So, to get M->, you actually have to type Meta-Shift->. That is, press and hold down both the Meta and Shift keys, and then strike ``>''.
Note: Many of the key bindings can also be done with menu items.
Under Windows, some of these keybindings are actually standard menu items. Those keybindings will behave according to the menus, unless the Enable Keybindings In Menus preference is unchecked.