Blog

Emacs is not just a powerful text editor; it is also an extensible platform that allows users to customize and enhance their workflow through Emacs Lisp (Elisp). If you are new to Emacs Lisp, this tutorial will help you write your first functions and understand basic customization.

Getting Started with Emacs Lisp

Emacs Lisp is a dialect of Lisp designed specifically for extending and customizing Emacs. You can evaluate Emacs Lisp code interactively, making it a great language for experimentation and learning.

Evaluating Lisp Expressions

To start working with Emacs Lisp, you can evaluate expressions in different ways:

• M-: (Meta key + :) opens the minibuffer where you can type an expression and execute it.
• C-x C-e (Control + x followed by Control + e) evaluates the expression before the cursor in an open buffer.

Try evaluating this simple expression:

After placing the cursor at the end of the expression, press C-x C-e, and Emacs will display the result in the minibuffer.

Writing Your First Function

Emacs Lisp functions allow you to define reusable blocks of code. The basic syntax for defining a function is:

Example: A Simple Greeting Function

Here is a basic function that prints a greeting message:

To execute this function, type M-x greet after defining it in an Emacs buffer.

Using Arguments in Functions

You can define functions that accept arguments to make them more flexible.

To run this function, evaluate:

This will display: Hello, Alice! in the minibuffer.

Customizing Emacs with Interactive Functions

To make your functions callable with M-x, you need to use the interactive keyword.

Now you can call M-x greet-interactive, enter your name when prompted, and see the greeting message.

Modifying Emacs Behavior with Hooks

Hooks allow you to execute functions when specific events occur in Emacs. For example, to display a message when opening a new buffer:

Conclusion

By learning Emacs Lisp, you can customize and enhance your Emacs experience to fit your workflow. Start small with simple functions and gradually explore more advanced topics like hooks and keybindings. Happy coding!

Emacs is one of the most powerful and extensible text editors available, but its complexity can be daunting for new users. Mastering Emacs requires learning key bindings, navigation shortcuts, and workflow enhancements that can dramatically improve your efficiency. This guide provides essential tips to help you become more productive with Emacs.

1. Learn the Essential Key Bindings

Emacs is heavily reliant on key bindings, and memorizing the most useful ones will save you time. Here are some fundamental key bindings you should know:

File Management:

• C-x C-f – Open a file
• C-x C-s – Save a file
• C-x C-w – Save as a new file
• C-x C-c – Exit Emacs

Navigation:

• C-f / C-b – Move forward/backward by character
• M-f / M-b – Move forward/backward by word
• C-n / C-p – Move to next/previous line
• C-a / C-e – Move to beginning/end of line
• M-< / M-> – Jump to beginning/end of buffer

Editing:

• C-d – Delete forward character
• M-d – Delete forward word
• C-k – Kill (cut) the rest of the line
• C-y – Yank (paste) from clipboard
• M-y – Cycle through kill-ring (clipboard history)
• C-/ or C-x u – Undo

2. Efficient Buffer and Window Management

Working with multiple files and buffers efficiently is key to mastering Emacs.

Managing Buffers:

• C-x b – Switch to another buffer
• C-x C-b – List all buffers
• C-x k – Kill (close) a buffer

Managing Windows:

• C-x 2 – Split window horizontally
• C-x 3 – Split window vertically
• C-x 1 – Close all other windows
• C-x o – Switch between windows
• C-x 0 – Close the current window

3. Use Incremental Search for Faster Navigation

Searching in Emacs is powerful and efficient. Instead of manually scrolling, use these search commands:

• C-s – Incremental search forward
• C-r – Incremental search backward
• M-% – Query replace

You can press C-s repeatedly to jump to the next match.

4. Customize Your Workflow with Emacs Packages

Emacs can be customized with packages to improve your workflow. Use MELPA to install packages that enhance productivity.

Popular Productivity Packages:

• Helm (M-x package-install helm) – Improves navigation and buffer searching
• Projectile (M-x package-install projectile) – Enhances project management
• Magit (M-x package-install magit) – A powerful Git interface for Emacs
• Org-mode (built-in) – Great for note-taking, to-do lists, and project planning

5. Take Advantage of Macros for Automation

If you find yourself repeating tasks, use Emacs macros to automate them.

Recording and Using Macros:

• C-x ( – Start recording macro
• C-x ) – Stop recording
• C-x e – Execute macro

You can repeat a macro multiple times with C-u <number> C-x e.

6. Use Org-Mode for Enhanced Productivity

Org-mode is one of Emacs’ most powerful features, enabling efficient note-taking and task management.

Useful Org-mode Commands:

• C-c C-t – Toggle TODO state
• C-c C-s – Schedule a task
• C-c C-d – Set a deadline
• C-c C-a – Attach a file
• C-c C-e – Export to various formats (PDF, HTML, etc.)

7. Master the Minibuffer for Faster Command Execution

The minibuffer is where you interact with Emacs commands.

• M-x – Execute commands by name
• M-! – Run a shell command
• C-x ESC ESC – Repeat the last command

Using M-x allows you to execute Emacs commands without needing to remember all key bindings.

Emacs is a highly efficient editor once you master its key bindings, navigation techniques, and customization options. By incorporating these tips into your daily workflow, you’ll dramatically improve your productivity and make the most of Emacs’ powerful features. Keep practicing, and soon Emacs will feel like an extension of your hands!

In today’s fast-paced, information-saturated world, people are constantly searching for ways to navigate life’s challenges, improve relationships, and achieve personal growth. This is where Hack Spirit comes into play—an online platform dedicated to providing practical wisdom, self-improvement insights, and relationship advice. But what exactly is Hack Spirit, and why has it gained so much popularity?

What Is Hack Spirit?

Hack Spirit is a digital publication that focuses on personal development, mindfulness, relationships, and psychology. It provides well-researched articles, guides, and courses designed to help individuals lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Unlike conventional self-help content, Hack Spirit approaches these topics with a modern, no-nonsense perspective, breaking down complex psychological concepts into digestible, actionable advice.

The platform was founded by Lachlan Brown, who sought to create a space that distills ancient wisdom and modern psychology into practical, everyday insights. Hack Spirit covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Mindfulness and Mental Clarity: Tips on meditation, self-awareness, and emotional resilience.
• Relationships and Dating: Guidance on communication, attachment styles, and building deeper connections.
• Self-Improvement and Growth: Productivity hacks, motivation, and confidence-building strategies.
• Philosophy and Psychology: Applying ancient wisdom (such as Buddhist teachings and Stoicism) to modern challenges.

Why Is Hack Spirit Interesting?

1. A No-Fluff, Actionable Approach

Many self-help websites focus on vague motivational advice, but Hack Spirit takes a straightforward, practical approach. Articles often include step-by-step guides, real-life examples, and scientific backing, making them immediately useful in daily life.

2. A Blend of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Psychology

One of the most intriguing aspects of Hack Spirit is its ability to blend Eastern philosophies (like Buddhism and Taoism) with modern psychological research. This unique combination provides deep insights into personal happiness, relationships, and mindfulness.

3. Helping People Navigate Love and Relationships

One of the site’s standout areas is its relationship advice. Whether it’s understanding attachment styles, handling breakups, or improving communication, Hack Spirit offers honest, research-backed relationship insights that many people find relatable and effective.

4. Empowering Individuals Through Mindfulness

Hack Spirit promotes mindfulness and self-awareness as tools for overcoming stress, anxiety, and negativity. Unlike generic meditation advice, the site breaks down how to practically integrate mindfulness into everyday life, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced practitioners.

5. A Resource for People Seeking Meaning

Many people today feel disconnected, unfulfilled, or uncertain about their life path. Hack Spirit offers perspectives on personal growth, resilience, and emotional intelligence that help individuals find clarity and purpose.

Final Thoughts

Hack Spirit stands out in the crowded self-improvement space because it provides real, actionable advice rather than just feel-good motivation. By blending ancient wisdom with modern psychological principles, it offers a fresh and practical approach to living a more fulfilling life. Whether you’re looking to strengthen relationships, develop mindfulness, or gain deeper self-awareness, Hack Spirit serves as a valuable resource for those on a journey of personal growth.

If you’re someone who appreciates honest, straightforward advice that cuts through the noise of conventional self-help, Hack Spirit is definitely worth exploring.