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 UNIX systems, the menu shows "Meta-T", indicating that you must hold the Meta key while typing "T" (the Meta key may be marked with a diamond, or it may be labeled "Alt"); and on Windows, the menu shows "Ctrl-T", indicating that you must hold the Control key while typing "T".

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 ".").

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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