editing sources list

[penguin2]

Which method do you recommend for editing sources.list?

I use both Debian and sidux. They have slightly different ones ('hope you know what I mean) but essentially the same concept, I believe.

But, how should I edit? Also, do you take out what is in the default or leave it and add your own or the ones recommended?

E.g. sidux has a Live CD or DVD with defaults listed in two separate lists. Debian 5 Testing/Squeeze has one as well that is the default. I want to add non-free sources so do I just add them to what is already there?

I want to do it the proper way to avoid errors or dependency issues.

What editor should I use? I like Kate (sorry, GUI guy) and usually just start it as root. I have used Nano, too, though.

I think I might receive an answer like 'use what you like' or your preference but want to hear your opinions and maybe there is some info about the various methods that I don't know about.

Thanks in advance for any replies and answers.

[reed9]

I use nano because it's quick and easy. But then, I also do all my package management from the command line these days.

To add a new section, such as non-free, tack it on to the end of the main line as so:

deb http://http.us.debian.org/debian stable main contrib non-free

You generally will not remove the defaults (and I recommend commenting them out rather than actually deleting them, if you do need to remove one.) If you need to add a repo, such as debian multimedia, you'll add a new line.

sources.list

[reed9]

You mentioned Sidux.

Here is their guide on the sources.list.
sidux Manuals - APT-Guide