Using the nano Text Editor

nano is a simple text editor that works like most desktop editors: you just start typing. It is installed on Ubuntu and many other systems, and is a good choice if you only need to change a setting now and then.

Opening files

nano file.txt

Opens file.txt, or starts a new file with that name.

sudo nano /etc/hosts

Opens a system file. You need sudo to save changes to files outside your home directory.

nano -l config.conf

Shows line numbers down the side.

Using nano

The shortcuts are listed at the bottom of the screen. ^ means the Ctrl key and M- means the Alt key.

Key	What it does
`Ctrl + O`	Save (write out). Press Enter to confirm the name
`Ctrl + X`	Exit. You'll be asked to save if there are changes
`Ctrl + W`	Search
`Ctrl + \`	Search and replace
`Ctrl + K`	Cut the current line
`Ctrl + U`	Paste
`Ctrl + _`	Go to a line number
`Alt + U`	Undo
`Ctrl + G`	Help