Cut and paste

In computing, a popular, simple method of moving text or other data from a source to a destination.

Cutting can be performed on most graphical user interface systems using the key combination Ctrl+X, or by using some other method, such as a context menu or a toolbar button. When data is cut, it is first copied into the area of memory referred to as the clipboard, and then deleted from the source application. It can then be pasted into a destination using the key combination Ctrl+V, or another method dependent on the system.

The popularity of this method stems from its simplicity, and the ease with which data can be moved between various applications without resorting to permanent storage.

The programming style with cut and paste is called cut and paste programming.

Compare copy and paste.

See also Control key.