If findsrc is unable to make a decision, it invokes the file(1) command, and prompts the user for a decision. In reply to the prompt, type the letter ‘‘y’’ or ‘‘n’’ (either case); RETURN means yes. If the reply starts with an exclamation point, the rest of the line is passed off to a sub-shell and the question is repeated. The ‘‘-d’’ option may be used with an argument of ‘‘y’’ or ‘‘n’’ to by-pass the interaction, and provide a default answer.
The ‘‘-o’’ option may be used to specify an output filename. This is designed to prevent confusion if a command like the following is executed:
findsrc . * >LIST
By default, findsrc ignores files whose names begin with a period, like ‘‘.newsrc’’ or ‘‘.tags’’; such files may be included by using the ‘‘-.’’ option. Findsrc also normally ignores RCS and SCCS files and directories; using either the ‘‘-R’’ or ‘‘-S’’ option causes both to be included.
Findsrc normally lists only the names of those files that have been selected. If the ‘‘-v’’ option is used, rejected files are also listed preceeded by the word ‘‘PUNTED.’’
If no files are specified on the command line, the program operates as a filter, reading a list of files and directories from the standard input, one per line.