---
name: "fish_key_reader"
section: "1"
platform: "linux"
package: "fish"
version: "4.9.3-1"
release: "Arch Linux 2026-11-01"
platforms: ["linux"]
url: "https://new.carta.tech/fish_key_reader"
---

# fish\_key\_reader(1)

explore what characters keyboard keys send

## NAME

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

## SYNOPSIS

```
fish_key_reader [OPTIONS]
```

## 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**

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

- **-h** or **--help**

  Displays help about using this command.

- **-V** or **--verbose**

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

- **-v** or **--version**

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

## 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

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

## Copyright

fish-shell developers