How to Use the i3 Command (with Examples)

i3 is a dynamic tiling window manager specifically designed to be fast, flexible, and functional. It allows users to efficiently manage their windows through keyboard shortcuts, optimizing space and improving productivity by neatly aligning open applications. The i3 window manager is particularly popular among developers and tech enthusiasts who appreciate its minimalist design and its ability to streamline workflow.

Start i3

Code:

i3

Motivation:

Starting the i3 window manager is the first step in leveraging its capabilities to organize and manage application windows. By initiating i3, users set up a workspace that provides enhanced control over window layout, leading to more efficient use of screen real estate and improved overall productivity.

Explanation:

The command i3 is executed in a terminal or during the shell session when no other window manager is in operation. This is critical because managing windows requires direct and full control over the graphical window environment, and conflicts could arise if multiple window managers are active. Hence, ensuring that no other manager is open is imperative to avoid conflicts.

Example Output:

Upon execution, the graphical user interface (GUI) switches, and the default i3 environment appears, often characterized by its minimalist design and lack of a traditional desktop background.

Open a New Terminal Window

Code:

<Super> + <Return>

Motivation:

Having the ability to quickly open a new terminal window allows users to run multiple command-line applications simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for developers and system administrators who may need to constantly access different terminal sessions during various tasks or operations.

Explanation:

<Super> + <Return> is a keyboard shortcut specific to i3 that opens a new terminal window. The Super key is often the ‘Windows’ key or ‘Command’ key depending on the platform. The <Return> key corresponds to the ‘Enter’ key. This combination informs the i3 window manager to execute its default terminal emulator, offering quick access to command-line tools.

Example Output:

A new terminal window appears in the current workspace, instantly ready for user input and commands.

Create a New Workspace

Code:

<Super> + <Shift> + number

Motivation:

Workspaces are crucial for managing multiple groups of tasks or projects concurrently without losing focus. This functionality allows users to separate different workflows — for example, one workspace for coding and another for browsing documentation.

Explanation:

The combination <Super> + <Shift> + number enables users to create a new workspace in i3. The Super key, as noted earlier, is typically the Windows or Command key. The <Shift> key enhances the command to indicate creation or movement, and ’number’ corresponds to the desired workspace number. This formation tells i3 to create and switch to the new workspace designated by the number.

Example Output:

A fresh workspace appears on the screen, devoid of any open applications, providing a clean slate for focused activity.

Switch to Workspace Number n

Code:

<Super> + n

Motivation:

Effortlessly switching between workspaces is a key feature that propels productivity, allowing the user to jump directly to specific sets of applications or tasks aligned under different workspace numbers.

Explanation:

Pressing <Super> + n switches the view directly to the workspace associated with the specified number n. This expedites workflow by allowing direct access to different environments — all aligned under separate workspaces.

Example Output:

The interface transitions smoothly to the targeted workspace, allowing users to access their intended applications and windows.

Open New Window Horizontally

Code:

<Super> + h

Motivation:

Opening a new window horizontally allows users to view multiple applications side by side, horizontally splitting the screen space. This can be essential when comparing text, writing code next to documentation, or using multiple terminals simultaneously.

Explanation:

By entering <Super> + h, i3 instructs the window manager to open the next window adjacently in a horizontal layout. The ‘h’ in the combination suggests ‘horizontal’, aligning with the intuitive understanding of window management terms.

Example Output:

The screen is split horizontally, with the newly opened window sharing the space with the existing ones horizontally.

Open New Window Vertically

Code:

<Super> + v

Motivation:

Vertical window openings allow easier multitasking as more applications can fit into the screen view simultaneously, each stacked one atop the other. This capability maximizes vertical space and is ideal for viewing long lists or detailed data comparisons.

Explanation:

The function <Super> + v directs the i3 manager to open a new window vertically. ‘v’ is representative of ‘vertical’, instructing the layout to stack windows up and down.

Example Output:

The screen expands vertically to accommodate a new window, situating it either below or above the current one, depending on spatial logic dictated by i3.

Open Application

Code:

<Super> + D

Motivation:

Quickly launching an application without navigating through menus enhances workflow efficiency. Directly opening applications by name provides precise and immediate access to necessary tools or software.

Explanation:

<Super> + D triggers a prompt within the i3 environment allowing the user to type out the desired application name, immediately launching it upon execution. The ‘D’ can be indicative of ‘Dmenu’, a popular application launcher often associated with i3 environments; however, this can vary based on configuration.

Example Output:

An input prompt surfaces, awaiting the application name. Upon entering a valid application, it launches in a new window.

Conclusion

Mastering i3 commands and shortcuts can revolutionize how individuals interface with their computing environments, particularly those who prioritize speed, flexibility, and organization. By utilizing each function effectively, users can customize their workspaces to suit specific needs, leading to increased productivity and computing satisfaction.