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write new line at the beginning of an existing file

 
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# 1  
Old 11-06-2008
write new line at the beginning of an existing file
I was trying to find out the easiest way to write new line to the beginning of an exisiting file.
I am using KSH.
# 2  
Old 11-06-2008
Code:
echo "my first new line" > tmp
cat oldfile >> tmp
mv tmp oldfile

one way.
# 3  
Old 11-06-2008
The easiest way is IMHO:

Code:
vi file
O
<ESCAPE>
ZZ

# 4  
Old 11-06-2008
Thank you for the replies.

I was able to write to the first line using the following command:
echo "1i\nthis is the line that u wanted to insert \n.\nwq" | ex -s filename


But could not understand the meaning though..
Could someone explain.

Thanks In Advance.
# 5  
Old 11-06-2008
Code:
echo "1i\nthis is the line that u wanted to insert \n.\nwq" | ex -s filename

echo "string...." ex -s filename means to invoke the ed (or vi) editor thru the ex program. -s means "silent" do not give responses.

1i\n = goto line 1 go into insert mode add a new line then insert the text
\n.\nwq - add a newline at the end of the text, then write the changes to the file and quit.

Most people don't necessarily view this as easier than some other more "scripty" ways.
# 6  
Old 11-06-2008
Thank you for the detailed explanation.Now I understand what it is..
I did not want to use tmp files hence used this approach..

Thanks again
 
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