Xcode Tip: Column mode text Selecting

There are times when you need to select text in column mode instead of the tradtional row selection. Think of it like selecting a range of columns in a spreadsheet like Excel or Numbers. For example, lets say there is 4 members that you want to make into properties.

Move the cursor to the beginning column you want to start highlighting from. Hold down the ALT/Otption key and then press and hold down the left mouse button. Next, highlight the code with the mouse or arrow keys. After the code is highlighted, simply copy it to the clipboard. (command + C Key)

Notice in the image above, I previously pasted the @property four (4) times so that I could then insert the selected code once. To do this, move the cursor to the position of the first @property and paste. (Command + V).

There you go! The columns of code that were highlighted and saved to the clipboard are now pasted all at once. No need to have to paste each variable one at a time!

ALT + Left Mouse button = Column Mode Text Selection