Basic Vim Commands
What is vim?
Vim is a text editor. What distinguishes Vim from other text editors you've probably used is that is it is a command line text editor. While there are GUI versions of Vim, it's most powerful when as a TUI (text user interface) application. This basically means that Vim runs inside your Terminal and is controlled by text commands from your keyboard, not from your mouse.
Fans of Vim enjoy it for three main reasons: ubiquity, efficiency, and it’s better than emacs.; meaning, it's everywhere and it helps you work faster. The latter is true because it encourages the user to control the application from home row, meaning your hands never leave the keyboard.
The main problem with Vim is that there is a steep learning curve. Generally, new users open Vim, can't figure out how to type, and then can't figure out how to quit! Getting started with Vim requires memorization (or easy access) to a handful of commands. Hence, I've written this guide.
Stick with it
It's worth it. You might feel overwhelmed by the plethora of features, but don't be. Vim efficiency follows the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule). The majority of efficiency gains are achieved through a small percentage of the features. This guide is designed to get you from zero to "over the hump". And from experience, if you commit to Vim, there's a 1-2 week hump before you start feeling comfortable. So stick with it!
If you're totally new, check out our guide on how to get started with Vim.