vi editor insertion at end of line In vi, which single-key command appends text at the end of the current line and enters insert mode there?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
vi provides several ways to start inserting text relative to the cursor position. Mastering these entry points accelerates editing source code and configuration files by reducing keystrokes and unnecessary cursor movement.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • You are in normal mode (Esc pressed).
  • You want to append at the end of the current line, regardless of the cursor’s current column.
  • Standard vi/Vim behavior.


Concept / Approach:
The uppercase command A moves the cursor to end of line and enters insert mode, letting you append immediately. Lowercase a appends after the cursor at its current position, i inserts before the cursor, and I inserts at the first non-blank character of the line.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Press A in normal mode.The cursor jumps to the last character of the current line.vi switches to insert mode so you can type appended text.Press Esc to return to normal mode when finished.


Verification / Alternative check:
Try a to see it appends right after the cursor, not at line end. Try I to start typing at the first non-blank, which differs from A’s behavior on indented code lines.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
a (Option B) appends after the cursor position only.i (Option C) inserts before the cursor position.I (Option D) inserts at the first non-blank of the line.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Forgetting to exit insert mode with Esc.
  • Using a instead of A on long lines, causing mid-line insertions.
  • Confusing I and A in indented code where leading whitespace matters.


Final Answer:
A

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