LinuxCommandLibrary

helix

Edit text with a modal editor

TLDR

Open a file

$ helix [path/to/file]
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Open files and show them one next each other
$ helix --vsplit [path/to/file1 path/to/file2]
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Show the tutorial to learn Helix (or access it within Helix by pressing and typing <:>tutor)
$ helix --tutor
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Change the Helix theme
$ <:>theme [theme_name]
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Save and Quit
$ <:>wq<Enter>
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Force-quit without saving
$ <:>q!<Enter>
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Undo the last operation
$ <u>
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Search for a pattern in the file (press / to go to next/previous match)
$ </>[search_pattern]<Enter>
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SYNOPSIS

hx [options] [files...]

PARAMETERS

-h, --help
    Display help information.

-v, --version
    Show version information.

-c, --config
    Specify a custom configuration file.

-l, --log-level
    Set the log level (trace, debug, info, warn, error).

-d, --debug
    Enable debug mode.

[files...]
    Files to open in Helix.

DESCRIPTION

Helix is a modal text editor inspired by Vim and Kakoune. It aims to be intuitive and efficient, leveraging multiple selections and language server protocol (LSP) integration for a modern editing experience.

Unlike Vim, Helix features built-in tree-sitter support for syntax highlighting and code navigation. It also prioritizes multiple selections and operations on those selections. LSP support provides features like autocompletion, diagnostics, and go-to-definition. The editor is designed to be easy to configure, providing useful defaults and a focus on simplicity.

Helix offers a powerful yet approachable text editing solution, emphasizing the use of selections with a focus on efficient workflow.

CONFIGURATION

Helix is configured via a TOML file, typically located at ~/.config/helix/config.toml. This file allows customization of keybindings, themes, language servers, and other editor settings.

KEY BINDINGS

Helix uses modal editing where keystrokes have different meanings depending on the current mode (normal, insert, visual). Key bindings are inspired by Vim but with some changes.

LANGUAGE SERVER PROTOCOL (LSP)

Helix utilizes LSP for code intelligence features. Configuration of LSPs is done through the languages.toml file.

HISTORY

Helix is a relatively new text editor, with active development and growing community support. The project focuses on modernizing the modal editing paradigm and has gained traction as an alternative to Vim, attracting users looking for a similar but more user-friendly experience.

SEE ALSO

vim(1), nano(1), emacs(1)

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