View and open files from the side panel

The most common way to switch between files in gedit is by using the tabs at the top of the gedit window. In some cases, though, particularly when you are working with a large number of open files, you may find it easier to use the side panel.

To activate the side panel, select View ▸ Side Panel, or just press the F9 key.

You can toggle the side panel open or closed by pressing F9 at any time.

Opening files from the side panel

To open files from the side panel, first open the side panel by selecting View ▸ Side Panel (or just press F9), and then choose File Browser from the dropdown at the top of the panel.

This will activate the File Browser mode of the side panel. You can then use the navigation buttons at the top of the panel to locate and open your desired files.

Using the side panel to switch between open files

Once you have several files open, you can use the side panel to switch between open files. To list open files, choose Documents from the dropdown at the top of the panel.

Clicking on any file name in the side panel will open that file for editing.