Numeric Arguments

You can prefix a numeric argument, or simply an argument, to a command. This numeric argument generally functions as a repeat count for that command. You may enter a numeric argument in several ways. You may type Ctrl-u and then the number. You can also enter a numeric argument by holding down the Alt key and typing the number using the number keys across the top of the keyboard. Then you invoke a command, and that command generally repeats that number of times.

For example, suppose you type the four characters Ctrl-u 2 6 Ctrl-n. The Ctrl-n key runs the command named down-line, which moves point down one line. But given a numeric argument of 26, the command moves point down 26 lines instead of 1 line. If you give a numeric argument of -26 by typing a minus key while typing the 26, the down-line command would move point up 26 lines. You can get the same effect as Ctrl-u 2 6 Ctrl-n by holding down the Alt key and typing 26 on the main keyboard, then typing Ctrl-n. (Remember to release the Alt key first; otherwise you'd get Alt-Ctrl-n.)

You can give a numeric argument to any Epsilon command. Most commands will repeat, as our example did above. But some commands use the numeric argument in some other way, which can vary from command to command. Some commands ignore the numeric argument. We describe all the commands in the chapter titled "Commands by Topic".

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