Here is a quick guide to learn and use the Vim editor.

Basically, you always switch between two modes in Vim, which are command mode and insert mode:

  • In command mode, you move around the file, delete text, or execute other commands.
  • In insert mode, you insert and edit text.

During start, Vim is always at command mode.

  • To change from command mode to insert mode, press i/I/a/A/o/O (refer table below).
  • To change from insert mode to command mode, press Esc (escape key).