How to Exit a File in Terminal (Bash/Zsh)

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Created: 2023-08-17 04:41:33 UTC


If you are new to editing files with Terminal programs such as VI, VIM, or Nano, then it could be difficult at first to understand how to exit a file that is being opened in edit mode.

Let us take a look at how to exit a file based on each editor type.


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Note: It should not matter what kind of shell you are using bash/zsh, but will matter on which operating system you are on Ubuntu Linux, macOS or Windows.


Exit a file using Nano Editor

    The Nano editor is the most easy to use editor for the Terminal. If you have opened a file using nano command, then you can exit by pressing the Keys "Control + X"

    If you have made no changes to the file, the application will exit and return to your bash/zsh shell prompt.

    Press Control + X to Exit File in Nano Editor

    If you have made changes to the file, then when you press Control + X you will be asked a question,

    Saving File Changes Nano Editor

    Save modified buffer?

    Y Yes
    N No
    ^C Cancel

    • If you want to save changes and exit then press Control + Y

    • If you do not want to save changes and exit then press Control + N

    • If you do not want to exit the file and continue editing then press Control + C


Exit File using Vi/Vim

    Vi/Vim is a more powerful and advanced text editor, it could be a bit difficult at first how to exit its file editing modes as compared to Nano.

    • Step 1: Press Escape key to get into the command mode.
    • Step 2:
      • If you want to save and exit, then type :wq (write and quit) and press Enter.
        Vi Vim Save and Quit File Command
      • If you do not want to save changes and exit, then type :q! and press Enter.
        Vi Vim Quit File without Saving

    You should return back to the terminal prompt.


Exit File when using less or more commands

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