vim basics (insert, command, save, quit) in Linux CLI - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What mode do you enter in Vim to start typing text?

Insert mode. You enter it by pressing i in command mode.

beginner

How do you switch from insert mode back to command mode in Vim?

Press the Esc key to leave insert mode and return to command mode.

beginner

What command saves your changes in Vim without quitting?

Type :w in command mode and press Enter to save the file.

beginner

How do you quit Vim without saving changes?

Type :q! in command mode and press Enter to quit without saving.

beginner

What is the command to save and quit Vim at the same time?

Type :wq or :x in command mode and press Enter.

Which key do you press to enter insert mode in Vim?

A Esc

B i

C :w

D :q

Pressing i switches Vim to insert mode so you can type text.

How do you save changes in Vim without quitting?

A :wq

B :q!

C :w

D Esc

The :w command saves your changes but keeps Vim open.

What command quits Vim and discards any changes?

A :q!

B :wq

C :w

D i

The :q! command quits Vim without saving changes.

Which key do you press to leave insert mode?

A i

B :q

C :w

D Esc

Pressing Esc returns you to command mode from insert mode.

What command saves and quits Vim in one step?

A :wq

B :q!

C i

D :w

The :wq command saves your changes and then quits Vim.

Explain how to open Vim, insert text, save your work, and quit.

Think about the keys and commands you use step-by-step.

Describe the difference between command mode and insert mode in Vim.

Remember which keys switch modes.