Chapter I: INTRODUCTION

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The Keyboard

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Many common commands can be invoked by typing keyboard equivalents, as shown in the pulldown menus. For example, the Negated command of the Arc menu is associated with the letter "T". On the Macintosh, the menu shows "CMD-T", indicating that you must hold the command key while typing the "T"; on Windows and UNIX systems, the menu shows "Ctrl-T", indicating that you must hold the Control key while typing "T".

On Windows and UNIX systems, you can get to EVERY menu command with key sequences. The keys to use are underlined in the menus. For example, the File menu has the "F" underlined, and the Print command of that menu has the "P" underlined. This means that you can hold the Alt key and type "FP" to issue the print command.

Many operations take a long time in Electric. If you grow impatient, type the interrupt key. This is a ^C on UNIX or Windows (hold the Control key and type "c"). On a Macintosh, use CMD. (hold the Command key and type "."). Note that on UNIX systems, you have to type ^C in the messages window, because typing it in the edit windows invokes a menu item.

Also, if you have pressed the mouse button but not released it yet, you will note that many operations track the effects of your intended operation on the screen. To abort this operation, type the interrupt key or the letter "a".

Finally, Electric has a highly complex command system that resides "under the surface." These commands can be invoked by typing the "-" key. However, since these commands are not intended for general use, do not type this key. If you do, a dialog will appear that will request a full command. Simply click the "Cancel" button to abort the dialog. Refer to the "Electric Internals Manual" for an explanation of the textual command language.


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