Technical data

Using a Text Editor
7-8
Positioning the Cursor
You may have noticed that the editing functions are performed relative to cursor po-
sition. For example, you can make text changes before, after, or at the cursor loca-
tion. Many commands exist within vi that provide cursor movement and placement.
This section introduces the basic cursor commands.
Some keyboards have arrow keys labeled < Prev > and < Next >. The < Prev > key
will move the cursor to the last screen displayed on the page and < Next > moves
the cursor to the page that will be displayed next. The arrow keys move the cursor in
the indicated direction.
The most commonly used method to move the cursor is to use the h, j, k, and l keys,
since they are the home keys on the keyboard for the right hand. The keys perform
the functions shown in Figure 7-4.