"I wanted to avoid, special IO for terminals"

This quote by Ken Thompson is referring to the concept of input/output (IO) in computer programs. IO is the process of transferring information between a computer program and its environment, such as a user or another program. In this quote, Thompson is suggesting that he wished to prevent the requirement for special IO for terminals, which are gadgets used to access a computer system.

Thompson's objective was to create a system that was more efficient and easier to use. By avoiding the requirement for special IO for terminals, he had the ability to develop a system that was more user-friendly and might be used by a wider series of people. This would have permitted users to access the system without having to find out a complex set of commands or comprehend the complexities of the system.

Thompson's quote is a testimony to his commitment to producing a system that was accessible and simple to utilize. By avoiding the requirement for unique IO for terminals, he had the ability to create a system that was more easy to use and could be utilized by a wider range of individuals. This quote is a tip of the significance of creating systems that are accessible and simple to use, and the effect that this can have on the user experience.