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How not to print

UNIX provides tools such as screen editors, I/O redirection, piping, and the on-line documentation systems that reduce the need for printing files. One of the biggest savers is the various previewers (for groff, TeX and PostScript) available.

You can help reduce turnaround time for printouts by printing only when hard-copy output is necessary and by not printing duplicate copies of files. Printing each version of a program and duplicates of files is counterproductive; you'll spend as much time tracking which piece of paper matches which file as you gain any other way. With good use of editors, window systems, and other tools you may never need a print out. Many homework assignments are both distributed and turned in electronically by mail or news now.

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