Welcome back my fellow Vim enthusiasts! Today we will be discussing a few shortcuts you can add to your .vimrc!

Find and Replace

Refactoring code is a large part of any programmers daily routine. Sometime you have to refactor a variable across a whole file. If you add the following code to your .vimrc

" Find and Replace
map <leader>fr :%s///g<left><left> " Find and replace
map <leader>frl :s///g<left><left> " Find and replace (current line only)

You can refactor code with a breeze. Just search in Vim using / and then hit fr to start refactoring. Then type in the new word and hit enter. Boom. Your code is refactored. Note: Currently there is no good way to refactor across multiple files. (Let me know in the comments if you find a way!)

Clearing searches

Another issue I have with Vim out of the box is searching cannot be cleared easily. So instead of typing a random string into your search bar, you can clear it with the following mapping:

" Clear searchs
map <leader><space> :let @/=''<cr> " clear search

Switching buffers

While working across multiple files I like to use buffers. I added shortcuts to switch my buffers easily.

" Switching Buffers
noremap <leader>[ :bp<return>
noremap <leader>] :bn<return>

Now you can page through your buffers with ease.

Vim hard mode

So if you are new to Vim, or are still used to the ‘Arrow keys.’ You can enable the little known hard mode in Vim.

" No arrow keys (Vim Hard mode)
noremap <Up> <NOP>
noremap <Down> <NOP>
noremap <Left> <NOP>
noremap <Right> <NOP>

Now you can ascend to the Master Vimmer you are meant to be.

Conclusion

So now that you have some new tools in your Vim toolbox. I hope you can extend your love for Vim. Be sure to check back soon for part 2! Let me know any other tips I should know in the comments.