VAX-11 Text Editing Reference Manual

This document serves as a reference manual for two text-editing programs available with VAX/VMS: SOS (Son of STOPGAP) and SLP (Source Language Input Program). Its primary purpose is to guide users in creating, modifying, and maintaining character-oriented ASCII files.

SOS is an interactive, line-oriented editor designed for online use, allowing a dialog between the user and the program. It supports various modes of operation, including Input, Read-only, and the central Edit mode, from which others like Copy-file, Decide, Alter, and Alter/insert are accessible. SOS features character-by-character editing, advanced text searching and substitution with pattern-matching constructs, and built-in safety mechanisms such as "Save World" commands for backups and confirmation prompts for major changes. A key characteristic of SOS is its use of 5-digit line numbers that are physically embedded within the text file.

SLP, on the other hand, is a batch-oriented editor. It is designed to apply changes to a text file in a single pass without user intervention, guided by a prepared command file. SLP is particularly useful for maintaining an exact record of modifications and for minimizing interactive editing time. Unlike SOS, SLP refers to lines by sequential numbers that are not part of the text file itself. SLP's output includes a listing file with an "audit trail" to track changes and an updated output file.

The manual details the commands, parameters, switches, and internal workings (such as temporary files) for both editors, highlighting their distinct philosophies regarding line numbering and operational approach. Appendices provide summaries of functions, features, and error messages for both SOS and SLP.