How can I configure NetBeans to insert tabs instead of a bunch of spaces?

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When I hit Tab for indenting code, I like to get a real tab. Meaning that when I select that, I only have one large thing selected. NetBeans inserts 5 spaces instead of a tab when I hit Tab. Is there a way I can change that?

5 Answers

Go to Tools-> Options-> Editor-> Formatting and uncheck Expand tabs to spaces:

Expand Tabs to Spaces

Ensure you also pick coherent values for "Number of Spaces per indent" and "Tab Size".


Additionally, you can check all the items in the Language combo and make sure they all use the general setting.

Use All Languages Setting

You can also change it in a per-project fashion. Right click on the project icon, select Properties and review the Formatting category.

Use project specific options

These menu items remain valid as of NetBeans 8.0.

In Tools-> Options-> Editor-> Formatting Expand tabs to spaces should be unchecked and Number of Spaces per Indent should be equal with Tab Size. Also check when you change Language from All languages to other there Override Global Options should be unchecked, too.

Netbeans IDE 8.2 (OSX)

Goto File -> Project Properties (Your Project)

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Select Formatting in Categories:

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Click on Edit global options.

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Then Click on Ok

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  • Uncheck : Expand tabs to space.
  • Click on : Apply
  • Click On : Ok

If you want set project specific then :

  • Select : Use project specific options.
  • Uncheck : Expand tabs to space.
  • You can also select Language (PHP)

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Then Click on Ok

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