In this section only the more essential commands will be described. The editor has two distinct modes of operation. This allows you to type various commands to the editor. The commands are usually single letters. If you are just starting to write into an empty file there is no point in being in command mode.
Command mode is only useful after there is some text to edit.
You are then certain to be in command mode. The vi editor is different from other editors you may have used. The cursor sits on a selected character rather than being a vertical line between characters as is the case for most mouse oriented editors. The cursor can only be moved when you are in command mode. The arrow keys will probably be easier to use.