The unix command : $ vi file1 file2
2015
The unix command :
$ vi file1 file2
- A.
Edits file1 and stores the contents of file1 in file2
- B.
Both files i.e., file1 and file2 can be edited using 'ex' command to travel between the files
- C.
Both files can be edited using 'mv' command to move between the files
- D.
Edits file1 first, saves it and then edits file2
Attempted by 39 students.
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Correct answer: B
Answer: vi file1 file2 opens both files and lets you edit either by switching between them.
Key points and useful commands:
Open multiple files: vi file1 file2 — both files are placed in vi's argument/buffer list.
Go to the next file: :n.
Go to the previous file: :prev (or :N).
List the files in the argument list: :args.
Edit a specific file from inside vi: :e filename.
Write current buffer to another filename (copy contents): :w file2.
Why the other choices are wrong:
The idea that opening both files stores the contents of the first into the second is false; no automatic copy occurs.
Using mv is irrelevant for switching inside the editor; mv renames or moves files at the filesystem level.
You do not have to save file1 before editing file2 when both are opened; vi lets you switch, though unsaved changes may prompt you or require forcible commands to discard.