# Editing text files from the command line

> Edit text files over SSH with the Nano or Vim editors, including opening, saving and quitting.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/linux/editing-text-files-from-the-command-line/

Editing Text Files from the Command Line

You can edit text files in your **Ruachost.com** control panel, but it’s often faster and more efficient to do it directly from the command line. This guide shows how to use the **Nano** and **Vim** editors to modify text files quickly.

## Choosing an Editor

**Nano** is simpler and ideal for beginners, while **Vim** offers more advanced features and flexibility once you get comfortable. You can try both and use whichever suits your workflow best.

> **Note:**\
> If this is your first time using the command line, it’s a good idea to review some basic Linux commands before continuing.

## Using the Nano Editor

Editing files with **Nano** is straightforward. To open a file, use this command:

```bash
nano filename
```

Replace **filename** with the name of the file you want to edit.

> **Note:**\
> If the specified file doesn’t exist, Nano automatically creates it.

Once the file opens, you can start typing immediately to make changes.

- Use the **arrow keys** to move around.
- Press **Ctrl + V** to scroll forward and **Ctrl + Y** to scroll backward.

When you’re done editing:

- Press **Ctrl + O** to save changes.
- Press **ENTER** to confirm the filename.
- Press **Ctrl + X** to exit.

For help inside Nano, press **Ctrl + G**.

## Using the Vim Editor

To open a file in **Vim**, type:

```bash
vi filename
```

> **Note:**\
> The command `vi` is linked to Vim. “Vi” is one of the earliest Unix text editors, and “Vim” stands for *Vi Improved*. You can type either `vi` or `vim` — both work the same way.

When Vim opens, it starts in **normal mode**, meaning it interprets keystrokes as commands rather than text input.

To start typing:

1. Press **i** to enter *insert mode*.
2. You’ll see `--INSERT--` at the bottom of the screen.
3. Make your edits. Use the **arrow keys** or **Page Up/Page Down** to move around.

To stop editing and return to normal mode, press **ESC**. The `--INSERT--` indicator disappears.

To save or exit:

- **:w** → Save changes without exiting.
- **:q** → Quit without saving.
- **:wq** → Save and quit at the same time.

> **Tip:**\
> To access a built-in Vim tutorial, type `vimtutor` at the command line.

## More Information

For detailed guides and documentation:

- **Nano editor:** <https://www.nano-editor.org/docs.php>
- **Vim editor:** <https://www.vim.org/docs.php>