FISH\_KEY\_READER(1) fish-shell FISH\_KEY\_READER(1)

# [NAME](#NAME)

fish\_key\_reader - explore what characters keyboard keys send

# [SYNOPSIS](#SYNOPSIS)

```
fish_key_reader [OPTIONS]
```

# [DESCRIPTION](#DESCRIPTION)

**fish\_key\_reader** is used to explain how you would bind a certain key sequence. By default, it prints the bind <> command for one key sequence read interactively over standard input.

The following options are available:

[**-c** or **--continuous**](#c)

Begins a session where multiple key sequences can be inspected. By default the program exits after capturing a single key sequence.

[**-h** or **--help**](#h)

Displays help about using this command.

[**-V** or **--verbose**](#V)

Explain what sequence was received in addition to the decoded key.

[**-v** or **--version**](#v)

Displays the current **fish** version and then exits.

# [USAGE NOTES](#USAGE_NOTES)

**fish\_key\_reader** intentionally disables handling of many signals. To terminate **fish\_key\_reader** in **--continuous** mode do:

- press **ctrl**-**c** twice, or
- press **ctrl**-**d** twice, or
- type **exit**, or
- type **quit**

# [EXAMPLE](#EXAMPLE)

```
> fish_key_reader
Press a key:
# press up-arrow
bind up 'do something'
```

# [Copyright](#Copyright)

fish-shell developers

October 26, 2026 4.9

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Document: fish_key_reader(1) from fish 4.9.3-r4 (Chainguard OS)
Source: https://github.com/fish-shell/fish-shell