helix
Edit text with a modal editor
TLDR
Open a file
Open files and show them one next each other
Show the tutorial to learn Helix (or access it within Helix by pressing
Change the Helix theme
Save and Quit
Force-quit without saving
Undo the last operation
Search for a pattern in the file (press
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.