In the vi editor, which command searches for a pattern in the forward direction from the current cursor position?

Introduction / Context:
Searching text efficiently is central to navigating in vi/Vim. Different search commands look forward or backward, and knowing the right one for forward search saves significant time.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• You are in normal mode in vi/Vim.
• You want to search forward in the file from the cursor location.

Concept / Approach:

The / command starts a forward search. After typing /pattern, pressing Enter will move the cursor to the next occurrence of 'pattern' after the cursor. Typing n repeats the search forward; N repeats it in the opposite direction.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Compare with ?pattern, which searches backward. Try on a sample file with repeated words to confirm direction.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• ??: invalid, not a vi command.
• //: repeats last search, does not initiate.
• ?: backward search.
• None: incorrect because / is correct.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing / with ? for direction.
• Forgetting to press Enter after typing the pattern.

Final Answer:

/.