### 32.1 Introduction to Line Editing

The following paragraphs describe the notation used to represent keystrokes.

The text `C-k` is read as ‘Control-K’ and describes the character produced when the `k` key is pressed while the Control key is depressed.

The text `M-k` is read as ‘Meta-K’ and describes the character produced when the Meta key (if you have one) is depressed, and the `k` key is pressed. The Meta key is labeled `ALT` on many keyboards. On keyboards with two keys labeled `ALT` (usually to either side of the space bar), the `ALT` on the left side is generally set to work as a Meta key. The `ALT` key on the right may also be configured to work as a Meta key or may be configured as some other modifier, such as a Compose key for typing accented characters.

If you do not have a Meta or `ALT` key, or another key working as a Meta key, the identical keystroke can be generated by typing `ESC` first, and then typing `k`. Either process is known as metafying the `k` key.

The text `M-C-k` is read as ‘Meta-Control-k’ and describes the character produced by metafying `C-k`.

In addition, several keys have their own names. Specifically, `DEL`, `ESC`, `LFD`, `SPC`, `RET`, and `TAB` all stand for themselves when seen in this text, or in an init file (see Readline Init File). If your keyboard lacks a `LFD` key, typing `C-j` will produce the desired character. The `RET` key may be labeled `Return` or `Enter` on some keyboards.