When working on Linux or connecting to a remote server, you often need to open and edit files directly in the terminal. This includes tasks like updating configuration files, fixing environment variables, editing server settings, or quickly changing code.
Linux provides two main terminal-based text editors: nano (easy) and vim (powerful). This cheat sheet explains both in a beginner‑friendly way.
1. Nano — The Easiest Text Editor for Beginners
Nano is simple, readable, and perfect for anyone new.
Open or create a file
nano filename.txt
Nano Basics
| Action | Keys | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Save file | CTRL + O | Writes your changes |
| Exit nano | CTRL + X | Asks to save if needed |
| Cut line | CTRL + K | Removes whole line |
| Paste line | CTRL + U | Pastes last cut |
| Search | CTRL + W | Find words |
| Go to line | CTRL + _ | Navigate fast |
| Undo | ALT + U | Undo changes |
| Redo | ALT + E | Redo undone changes |
2. Vim — More Powerful & Common on Servers
Vim is harder at first because it uses modes, but it’s extremely fast once learned.
Vim Modes Explained
| Mode | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Normal | Move around & issue commands |
| Insert | Type text normally |
| Visual | Select text |
Open Vim
vim filename.txt
Switching Modes
| Action | Key |
|---|---|
| Enter insert mode | i |
| Insert at end of line | A |
| New line below | o |
| Back to normal mode | ESC |
Saving & Exiting
| Action | Command |
|---|---|
| Save | :w |
| Quit | :q |
| Save & quit |
:wq or ZZ
|
| Quit without saving | :q! |
Navigation
| Action | Key |
|---|---|
| Move left/down/up/right | h j k l |
| Start of line | 0 |
| End of line | $ |
| Top of file | gg |
| Bottom of file | G |
Editing in Vim
| Action | Command |
|---|---|
| Delete character | x |
| Delete line | dd |
| Copy line | yy |
| Paste | p |
| Undo | u |
| Redo | CTRL + r |
Searching in Vim
| Action | Command |
|---|---|
| Search | /word |
| Next match | n |
| Previous match | N |
Which Should a Beginner Use?
Use nano for:
- Simple tasks
- Editing configs
- Avoiding complex shortcuts
Use vim for:
- Remote servers where nano isn’t installed
- Advanced editing
- Speed and power
Enjoy editing confidently on Linux and servers!