vi/vim editing — delete the character under the cursor In vi/vim normal mode, which command deletes the single character directly beneath (under) the cursor?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: x

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Precise character-level edits are common when correcting typos. vi/vim provides single-keystroke deletion commands that work from normal mode without entering insert mode, enabling very fast text manipulation.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are in normal (command) mode.
  • The goal is to remove exactly one character, the one under the cursor.
  • No custom mappings are in place.


Concept / Approach:

The command x deletes the character under the cursor. Its uppercase counterpart, X, deletes the character to the left of the cursor (backspace-like). Other delete commands operate on larger text objects or ranges (for example, dd deletes the entire line, and D deletes from the cursor to the end of the line).



Step-by-Step Solution:

Press Esc to ensure normal mode.Position the cursor over the character to remove.Press x to delete it.Optionally use a count: 3x deletes the next three characters under and after the cursor.


Verification / Alternative check:

Type a sample word, place the cursor on a letter, press x, and observe it vanish. Try X to see the difference (deletes to the left). Use u to undo if you delete the wrong character.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • X: deletes the character to the left, not under the cursor.
  • dd: deletes the whole current line.
  • D: deletes from the cursor to end of line.
  • None of the above: incorrect because x is correct.


Common Pitfalls:

Being in insert mode and pressing x (which will just type the letter x); mixing up x and X; forgetting that counts speed up repeated deletions.


Final Answer:

x

More Questions from Unix

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion