terminal

Some Terminal Frustrations

Survey of 1600 terminal users revealed frustrations around:

  • Syntax Memory (115): Forgetting CLI tool syntax and shortcuts.
  • Switching Terminals (91): OS and version discrepancies complicate usage.
  • Color Issues (85): Inconsistent color schemes and readability problems.
  • Keyboard Shortcuts (84): Inconsistencies across OS platforms hinder efficiency.
  • Copy/Paste Challenges (75): Issues with copy methods, multiple clipboards.
  • Discoverability (55): Difficulty finding tools and features.
  • Learning Curve (44): Terminal complexity hampers learning.
  • History Problems (42): Limitations and retrieval issues with command history.
  • Bad Documentation (37): Lack of clarity and examples in resources.
  • Scrollback Issues (36): Problems with data overflow and resizing.
  • Outdated Feel (33): Frustration about legacy systems and features.
  • Shell Scripting (32): Challenges with POSIX scripting complexities.

122 respondents reported no significant issues. Overall, users find terminal usage complex and frustrating due to various systemic issues, despite experience.

https://jvns.ca/blog/2025/02/05/some-terminal-frustrations/

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