9. Conventions used in this document

The following typographic and usage conventions occur in this text:

Table 1. Typographic and usage conventions

Text typeMeaning
"Quoted text" Quotes from people, quoted computer output.
terminal view
Literal computer input and output captured from the terminal, usually rendered with a light grey background.
command Name of a command that can be entered on the command line.
VARIABLE Name of a variable or pointer to content of a variable, as in $VARNAME.
option Option to a command, as in "the -a option to the ls command".
argument Argument to a command, as in "read man ls ".
prompt User prompt, usually followed by a command that you type in a terminal window, like in hilda@home> ls -l

command options arguments

Command synopsis or general usage, on a separated line.
filename Name of a file or directory, for example "Change to the /usr/bin directory."
Key Keys to hit on the keyboard, such as "type Q to quit".
Button Graphical button to click, like the OK button.
Menu->Choice Choice to select from a graphical menu, for instance: "SelectHelp->About Mozilla in your browser."
Terminology Important term or concept: "The Linux kernel is the heart of the system."
\
The backslash in a terminal view or command synopsis indicates an unfinished line. In other words, if you see a long command that is cut into multiple lines, \ means "Don't press Enter yet!"
See Chapter 1 link to related subject within this guide.
The author Clickable link to an external web resource.

The following images are used:

NoteThis is a note
 

It contains additional information or remarks.

CautionThis is a caution
 

It means be careful.

WarningThis is a warning
 

Be very careful.

TipThis is a tip
 

Tips and tricks.