Question: How do i copy text that includes tab characters from a text editor, let's say gedit into a terminal session on ubuntu/gnome? I am on ubuntu 12.0.4 using gnome classic.

**UPDATE** This same issue happens in CentOs - basically seems to apply to any gnome.

Answer: 
As I mentioned on the [OS X version of this question](https://superuser.com/a/1577258/54690), pasting tabs works fine. But **copying** them in the first place is tricky on Linux.
Just select the text you want to copy, and then middle click on the terminal. On most \*nix systems, selecting copies and middle click pastes.

Alternatively, you can select => right click=>copy => terminal => right click=> paste

Or, simply `Ctrl`+`C`,`Ctrl`+`V`

Have a look [here](http://www.pixelbeat.org/docs/xclipboard.html) for a short explanation of the Linux/Unix clipboard and the X buffer.