When using the command-line, often the last argument to the previous command is required for the next command.

For example, the use of "out.pdf" in these to lines:

> ps2pdf in.ps out.pdf
> acroread out.pdf

After typing acroread, and a space, pressing Alt and then . (written as Alt-.) will bring up the last argument of the previous command: out.pdf

If the argument you actually wanted was further back in the history, then simply keep pressing Alt-. until you get to that argument.

Advanced use:
You can also give a numerical argument to Alt-. (indeed, any readline library command that wants one). For example,


Alt-3 Alt-.  gives you the 3rd argument of the previous command

Alt-0 Alt-.  gives you the previous command

Alt-Minus 2 Alt-.  gives you the 3rd (yes, 3rd) argument from the end



Also, often you want to erase words or parts of a word (say, just the extension "pdf") or directories in a long pathname. Alt-backspace is good for this.

Cheers,
Carl.

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