4.3 Getting started with the editor

4.3.2 Opening and saving files

When you start the editor up, the first thing you must do is to open a file.

Note: Use the file extension .lsp for Lisp files. The editor recognizes this extension and puts the file's buffer in Lisp mode. Lisp mode provides special features for use in Lisp editing. You can put a buffer into Lisp mode manually by typing Esc x, which enters the echo area, and then lisp mode, followed by a Return.

You can create a new Lisp buffer by choosing File > New. The buffer will be in Lisp mode automatically. The buffer will be called "Unnamed". As soon as you try to save this buffer, you will be prompted for a filename to save it under.

You can open an existing file by choosing File > Open, or by pressing C-x C-f (hold down the Control key and press x followed by f). You will be prompted in the echo area for a filename.

Note: You can use C-x C-f to create a new editor, or to bring an existing one to the front, from the listener. This has the advantage that the editor is already displaying the file you require when it appears.

To save a file, either choose File > Save, or press C-x C-s. If the file has not been saved before (that is, if you created the file by choosing File > New and this is the first time you tried to save it), you will be asked to give a name for the file. Remember to use the file extension .lsp for Lisp files.

If you want to make a copy of the file (that is, save the file under a different name) choose Save As from the File menu. You will be asked to give a name in the echo area.


FreeLisp User's Guide - 5 FEB 1996

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