How to use the command 'cot' (with examples)

CotEditor is a straightforward text editor for macOS designed for general plain-text editing. It is lightweight and supports a range of features ideal for developers and everyday users who need to handle text files efficiently. This guide will illustrate various ways to use the ‘cot’ command-line tool provided by CotEditor.

Use case 1: Start CotEditor

Code:

cot

Motivation:
Imagine you’re a programmer who frequently needs to edit code files or text files quickly and efficiently. Instead of manually opening the CotEditor through the macOS interface, you can simply type cot in your terminal to launch the application swiftly. This saves time and keeps your workflow streamlined, especially when you are already working within the terminal.

Explanation:
The command cot without any additional arguments simply opens the CotEditor application. It’s equivalent to double-clicking the application icon in the Graphical User Interface of macOS.

Example Output:
When you execute cot, the CotEditor application starts up, displaying either a default blank document or the last opened document based on your settings.

Use case 2: Open specific files

Code:

cot path/to/file1 path/to/file2

Motivation:
Suppose you have multiple text files that you need to review and edit simultaneously. Instead of individually opening each file through Finder and CotEditor, you can use a single command to open all desired files. This is especially beneficial for tasks that require comparing or referencing content across multiple documents.

Explanation:
The command cot path/to/file1 path/to/file2 instructs CotEditor to open the specified files. The paths provided (‘path/to/file1’ and ‘path/to/file2’) direct CotEditor to the specific location of these files on your system.

Example Output:
CotEditor opens with several tabs or windows, each displaying the contents of one of the specified files, allowing users to quickly shift focus between documents.

Use case 3: Open a new blank document

Code:

cot --new

Motivation:
An instance arises where you need to jot down quick notes or start drafting a new document. Opening CotEditor with a new, blank document via the command line can be a quicker method compared to navigating through the application menu.

Explanation:
The argument --new tells CotEditor to open a new instance with a blank document, ready for immediate text input.

Example Output:
CotEditor is launched displaying a new untitled document, with the text cursor poised for input.

Use case 4: Open a specific file and block the terminal until it is closed

Code:

cot --wait path/to/file

Motivation:
While developing scripts that rely on user input or editing a configuration file, it’s often necessary to block subsequent command executions until a particular file is closed and modifications are saved. This command allows for command-line operations to be dependent on the completion of file modifications in CotEditor.

Explanation:
The --wait flag ensures that once the file is opened by CotEditor, the terminal session is effectively paused until the file is closed. The path/to/file serves as the location indicator of the file needing editing.

Example Output:
CotEditor opens the specified file, and the terminal remains engaged, waiting for the user to finish editing and close the document before proceeding with the subsequent commands.

Use case 5: Open a specific file with the cursor at a specific line and column

Code:

cot --line 1 --column 80 path/to/file

Motivation:
Editing large files can be cumbersome, especially when frequent navigation between specific sections is required. By opening a file directly at a precise line and column, you can expedite your workflow, targeting exact portions of your document for swift changes or review.

Explanation:
The --line 1 argument ensures the cursor starts at the first line of the file, while --column 80 places the cursor at the 80th column in that line. The path/to/file identifies the document you wish to edit.

Example Output:
CotEditor presents the file to you with the text cursor positioned at the specified line and column, spotlighting the section you’re interested in editing.

Conclusion:

The cot command makes editing with CotEditor more flexible and accessible for various tasks. Whether starting the application, opening multiple files, or navigating large documents efficiently, these command options support enhanced productivity. Each usage scenario can significantly streamline processes for anyone relying on text editing as an integral part of their computing activities.