To use multiple file buffers, you must be using nano 1.1.12 or newer, and you must have configured nano with --enable-multibuffer or --enable-extra (use nano -V to check). Then when you want to enable inserting a file into its own buffer instead of into the current file, just hit Meta-F, then insert the file as normal with ^R. If you always want files to be loaded into their own buffers, use the --multibuffer or -F flag when you invoke nano.
+To use multiple file buffers, you must be using nano 1.1.0 or newer, and you must have configured nano with --enable-multibuffer or --enable-extra (use nano -V to check). Then when you want to enable inserting a file into its own buffer instead of into the current file, just hit Meta-F, then insert the file as normal with ^R. If you always want files to be loaded into their own buffers, use the --multibuffer or -F flag when you invoke nano.
You can move between the buffers you have open with the Meta-< and Meta-> keys, or more easily with Meta-, and Meta-. (clear as mud, right? =-). When you have more than one file buffer open, the ^X shortcut will say "Close", instead of the normal "Exit" when only one buffer is open.
3.8. Tell me more about this verbatim input stuff!
To use verbatim input, you must be using nano 1.3.1 or newer. When you want to insert a literal character into the file you're editing, such as a control character that nano usually treats as a command, first press Meta-V. (If you're not at a prompt, you'll get the message "Verbatim input".) Then press the key(s) that generate the character you want.
@@ -241,6 +241,7 @@8. ChangeLog
+2004/01/30 - Fixed inaccuracy: multibuffer mode was first in nano 1.1.0, not 1.1.12. (DLR)
2003/12/31 - Added question about the new verbatim input function, and a few minor fixes. Removed reference to "set pico" (DLR).
2003/07/02 - Added question about nano's not showing color when it's compiled with color support (DLR; suggested by Jordi).
2003/02/23 - Updated RPM links for nano 1.2.x (DLR).