Replace 2 space characters with one

[JPh1]

Every now and then, my malfunctioning keyboard spacebar types 2 spaces instead of one. I'd like to automatically correct it with a AHK hotstring.
I looked at A_Space, AutoTrim, etc. without finding a clear way to do it.

How would you replace 2 spaces with one?

[Scr1pter]

Hi,

You should try it with SetTimer.

Code: Select all

Space::
if space_presses > 0 ; SetTimer already started, so we log the keypress instead.
{
      space_presses += 1
      return
}
; Otherwise, this is the first press of a new series. Set count to 1 and start
; the timer:
space_presses = 1
SetTimer, Space, -400 ; Wait for more presses within a 400 millisecond window.
return

I cannot test the script now.

Regards

[JPh1]

Thanks, but this is rather involved. I was hoping to do it with a single hotstring...

[jeeswg]

Perhaps this, but there may be some unanticipated drawback (or it might be fine). Cheers.

Code: Select all

:*?b0:  ::{Backspace}

[JPh1]

It seems to be working. What does *?b0 mean and what sort of drawback were you thinking of?

[jeeswg]

* ? and b0 are described here:
Hotstrings - Definition & Usage | AutoHotkey
https://autohotkey.com/docs/Hotstrings.htm

My summary:
* and ?: Hotstrings can be triggered without an ending character (*) and inside words (?).
b0: Normally with hotstrings, you type the abbreviation manually, and AutoHotkey then sends backspaces to remove the abbreviation, and AutoHotkey then sends text or does some action(s). b0 prevents sending backspaces.

Re. drawbacks, perhaps you would type too quickly, and get a backspace that deleted the wrong character. Generally speaking you have to test things for a while e.g. a day or so, to see if anything unexpected comes up.

[Scr1pter]

I had the same idea with backspace, but in my opinion it is a risky solution.
What if he uses space in a game or for other applications?

Regards