How Do I Save And Exit In Vi Editor Effectively?

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1. What Is the Vi Editor and Why Is It Still Relevant?

The Vi editor, a text editor that first appeared in 1976, remains a powerful tool for system administrators and developers because it is lightweight, efficient, and available on virtually every Unix-like system. Its enduring relevance stems from its efficiency and ubiquity, making it a go-to choice for quick edits in a terminal environment.

1.1. Origins and Evolution

Originally created by Bill Joy, Vi was designed for early Unix systems. Over the years, it evolved into enhanced versions like Vim (Vi Improved), which added features such as syntax highlighting, more extensive command sets, and a graphical user interface. Today, Vi often refers to Vim or a similar enhanced clone.

1.2. Core Features and Capabilities

Vi operates primarily in two modes: Command mode and Insert mode. This modal approach allows users to navigate and manipulate text quickly using keyboard shortcuts. It’s particularly useful for:

Configuration Files: Editing system configuration files, where precision and speed are crucial.
Scripting: Creating and modifying scripts in various programming languages.
Basic Text Editing: Handling quick edits or creating simple text documents directly from the command line.

1.3. Practical Applications in Modern Computing

Even with modern graphical text editors available, Vi remains essential because it is readily available on almost any Unix-like system, including Linux and macOS. This makes it invaluable for:

Remote Server Management: Editing files on remote servers via SSH, where graphical interfaces are not available.
System Recovery: Modifying system files in recovery mode when a graphical environment fails.
Resource Efficiency: Performing text editing tasks on systems with limited resources, where a lightweight editor is preferable.

1.4. Why System Administrators Love Vi

System administrators favor Vi for several reasons:

Ubiquity: Vi is virtually guaranteed to be present on any Unix-like system.
Efficiency: Its command-line nature allows for quick edits without the overhead of a GUI.
Reliability: Vi is stable and dependable, crucial for maintaining system integrity.
Scripting Compatibility: It integrates seamlessly with shell scripts and automation tools.

1.5. Vi vs. Vim: Understanding the Differences

While Vi and Vim are often used interchangeably, there are key differences:

Feature	Vi	Vim (Vi Improved)
Syntax Highlighting	No	Yes
Extended Commands	Limited	Extensive
GUI Support	Typically No	Yes (gVim)
Plugin Support	No	Yes
Undo/Redo	Single-level	Multi-level
Mouse Support	Limited or No	Yes
Customization	Minimal	Highly Customizable

1.6. Invoke Vi Editor

To invoke Vi, simply type vi filename in your terminal. This command opens an existing file or creates a new one if it doesn’t exist.

$ vi myfile.txt

2. How Do I Navigate Vi Editor’s Different Modes?

Vi operates in two primary modes: Command mode and Insert mode. Understanding how to switch between these modes is essential for effectively using the editor.

2.1. Understanding Command Mode

Command mode is the default mode when you first open a file in Vi. In this mode, you can execute commands to navigate, delete, copy, paste, and perform various other operations. However, you cannot directly enter text in this mode.

2.1.1. Key Navigation Commands

h, j, k, l: Move the cursor left, down, up, and right, respectively.
w: Move to the next word.
b: Move to the beginning of the word.
G: Move to the end of the file.
gg: Move to the beginning of the file.
:n: Move to line number n.

2.1.2. Deletion Commands

x: Delete the character at the cursor.
dd: Delete the entire line.
dw: Delete from the cursor to the end of the word.

2.1.3. Copy and Paste Commands

yy: Yank (copy) the current line.
p: Paste the yanked line below the current line.
P: Paste the yanked line above the current line.

2.1.4. Other Useful Commands

u: Undo the last change.
Ctrl + r: Redo the last undone change.
/pattern: Search for the specified pattern in the file.

2.2. Understanding Insert Mode

Insert mode allows you to insert text into the file. To enter Insert mode, press i from Command mode. Once in Insert mode, you can type text as you would in any other text editor.

2.2.1. How to Enter Insert Mode

i: Insert before the cursor.
a: Append after the cursor.
I: Insert at the beginning of the line.
A: Append to the end of the line.
o: Open a new line below the current line.
O: Open a new line above the current line.

2.2.2. Typing and Editing Text

In Insert mode, you can type text, use the Enter key to start a new line, and use the arrow keys to navigate. You can also use Backspace and Delete to remove characters.

2.3. Switching Between Command and Insert Modes

To switch from Insert mode back to Command mode, press the Esc key. This is a fundamental action in Vi and is crucial for executing commands after entering text.

2.4. Practical Examples of Mode Switching

Inserting Text:
- Open a file in Vi: vi myfile.txt
- Press i to enter Insert mode.
- Type: This is a new line of text.
- Press Esc to return to Command mode.
Deleting a Line:
- Ensure you are in Command mode (press Esc if needed).
- Move the cursor to the line you want to delete.
- Type dd to delete the line.
Copying and Pasting:
- Ensure you are in Command mode.
- Move the cursor to the line you want to copy.
- Type yy to yank (copy) the line.
- Move the cursor to where you want to paste the line.
- Type p to paste the line below the cursor.

2.5. Tips for Efficient Mode Management

Practice Switching: Regularly practice switching between Command and Insert modes to become more fluid.
Know Your Commands: Familiarize yourself with common Command mode shortcuts to minimize the need to enter Insert mode unnecessarily.
Use Visual Mode: For more complex text manipulations, consider using Visual mode (accessed by pressing v, V, or Ctrl-v in Command mode) to select text and then apply commands.

By mastering the art of switching between Command and Insert modes, you’ll significantly enhance your efficiency and productivity in Vi.

3. What Are the Primary Methods to Save in Vi Editor?

Saving your work in Vi involves using specific commands in Command mode. The primary method is to use the :w command, which writes (saves) the current file.

3.1. Using the `:w` Command

The :w command is the fundamental way to save your changes in Vi. To use it:

Press Esc to ensure you are in Command mode.
Type :w and press Enter.

This command saves the current file with all the changes you’ve made. If you are working on a new file that hasn’t been saved before, this command will save the file with the name you specified when you opened Vi.

3.2. Saving to a Different File

You can also use the :w command to save the file with a different name or to a different location. This is useful for creating backups or saving different versions of your work.

Press Esc to enter Command mode.
Type :w newfile.txt (replace newfile.txt with your desired file name) and press Enter.

This command saves the current buffer to a new file named newfile.txt, leaving the original file unchanged.

3.3. Saving with Superuser Permissions

Sometimes, you may need to edit files that require superuser (root) permissions, such as system configuration files. In such cases, you can use the :w !sudo tee % command to save the file with elevated privileges.

Press Esc to enter Command mode.
Type :w !sudo tee % and press Enter.

This command works by:

w: Writing the current buffer.
!sudo tee: Executing the tee command with superuser privileges. tee reads from standard input and writes to standard output and files.
%: Representing the current file name.

This command effectively saves the file by piping the output of Vi to the tee command, which then writes the file with superuser permissions.

3.4. Best Practices for Saving Files

Save Regularly: Save your work frequently to avoid losing progress due to unexpected issues.
Backup Before Editing: Always create a backup of important files before editing them, especially system configuration files.
Verify Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to modify the file. If not, use the sudo command or change the file permissions accordingly.

By mastering the various saving methods in Vi, you can ensure that your work is securely stored and that you have the flexibility to manage your files effectively.

4. What Are the Ways to Exit Vi Editor?

Exiting Vi is as crucial as saving your work. There are several ways to exit Vi, depending on whether you want to save your changes or discard them.

4.1. Saving and Exiting: `:wq`

The most common way to exit Vi after saving your changes is by using the :wq command. This command combines the write (:w) and quit (:q) actions into a single step.

Press Esc to ensure you are in Command mode.
Type :wq and press Enter.

This command saves the current file and then exits Vi. It’s the standard method for ensuring your changes are saved before closing the editor.

4.2. Saving and Exiting: `ZZ`

An alternative, quicker way to save and exit is by using the ZZ shortcut. This shortcut performs the same action as :wq but without needing to type the colon and the command.

Press Esc to enter Command mode.
Type ZZ (uppercase) without pressing Enter.

This shortcut is a convenient way to save time, especially for those who frequently use Vi.

4.3. Exiting Without Saving: `:q!`

If you’ve made changes that you don’t want to save, you can exit Vi without saving by using the :q! command. This command discards all changes and exits the editor.

Press Esc to enter Command mode.
Type :q! and press Enter.

This command is particularly useful when you’ve made mistakes or want to revert to the last saved version of the file.

4.4. Exiting When No Changes Have Been Made: `:q`

If you open a file in Vi and make no changes, you can simply use the :q command to exit. This command quits Vi without saving, as there are no modifications to preserve.

Press Esc to enter Command mode.
Type :q and press Enter.

This command is straightforward and useful when you only need to view a file without making any alterations.

4.5. Handling Errors When Exiting

Sometimes, you may encounter errors when trying to exit Vi. For example, if you have made changes but haven’t saved them, and you try to use the :q command, Vi will display an error message indicating that there are unsaved changes.

In such cases, you have two options:

Save the changes using :wq or ZZ.
Discard the changes and exit using :q!.

Vi’s error messages are designed to prevent accidental data loss, ensuring that you are aware of unsaved changes before exiting.

4.6. Tips for Efficiently Exiting Vi

Know Your Intent: Before exiting, be clear about whether you want to save your changes or discard them.
Use Shortcuts: Utilize the ZZ shortcut for quick saving and exiting.
Read Error Messages: Pay attention to any error messages Vi displays to avoid unintended data loss.
Practice Regularly: Regularly practice these commands to make them second nature.

By mastering these methods for exiting Vi, you can ensure that you efficiently manage your files and avoid any unexpected issues.

5. How Do I Undo and Redo Changes in Vi Editor?

Undoing and redoing changes are essential for correcting mistakes and experimenting with edits in Vi. The editor provides simple yet effective commands for these actions.

5.1. Undoing Changes: `u`

The u command in Vi is used to undo the last change made in Command mode. This includes text insertions, deletions, and other modifications.

Ensure you are in Command mode by pressing Esc.
Type u and press Enter.

Each time you press u, Vi will undo the preceding change, allowing you to step back through your edits.

5.2. Redoing Changes: `Ctrl + r`

If you undo a change and then decide you want to reinstate it, you can use the Ctrl + r command to redo the undone change.

Ensure you are in Command mode by pressing Esc.
Press and hold the Ctrl key, then press r.

This command will redo the last undone change, effectively reversing the undo action.

5.3. Practical Examples of Undo and Redo

Correcting a Mistake:
- You accidentally delete a line using dd.
- Press u to undo the deletion and restore the line.
Experimenting with Edits:
- You try a new edit but aren’t sure if you like it.
- Make the edit, and if you decide against it, press u to undo.
- If you then decide you prefer the edit, press Ctrl + r to redo.
Multiple Undos:
- You make several changes and then realize you want to revert to an earlier state.
- Press u multiple times to step back through each change.

5.4. Limitations of Undo and Redo

Vi’s undo and redo capabilities have some limitations:

Single-Level Undo in Original Vi: The original Vi editor typically supports only a single level of undo, meaning you can only undo the very last change.
Multi-Level Undo in Vim: Vim (Vi Improved) offers multi-level undo, allowing you to undo and redo multiple changes. Most modern systems use Vim or a Vim-like editor, so multi-level undo is generally available.

5.5. Best Practices for Using Undo and Redo

Use Undo Frequently: Don’t hesitate to use u to correct mistakes or experiment with edits.
Know Your Editor: Be aware of whether your Vi implementation supports single-level or multi-level undo.
Save Regularly: While undo and redo are helpful, saving your work frequently provides an additional layer of protection against data loss.

By mastering the undo and redo commands, you can confidently make changes in Vi, knowing that you can easily correct mistakes and experiment with different edits.

6. What Are Some Vi Editor Shortcuts?

Vi is renowned for its extensive use of keyboard shortcuts, which enable efficient text editing. Mastering these shortcuts can significantly enhance your productivity.

6.1. Basic Navigation Shortcuts

h, j, k, l: Move the cursor left, down, up, and right, respectively.
w: Move to the next word.
b: Move to the beginning of the word.
0 (zero): Move to the beginning of the line.
$: Move to the end of the line.
G: Move to the end of the file.
gg: Move to the beginning of the file.
:n: Move to line number n.

6.2. Editing Shortcuts

i: Insert before the cursor.
a: Append after the cursor.
I: Insert at the beginning of the line.
A: Append to the end of the line.
o: Open a new line below the current line.
O: Open a new line above the current line.
x: Delete the character at the cursor.
dd: Delete the entire line.
dw: Delete from the cursor to the end of the word.
yy: Yank (copy) the current line.
p: Paste the yanked line below the current line.
P: Paste the yanked line above the current line.
u: Undo the last change.
Ctrl + r: Redo the last undone change.

6.3. Saving and Exiting Shortcuts

:w: Save the file.
:wq: Save the file and exit.
ZZ: Save the file and exit (alternative to :wq).
:q!: Exit without saving.
:q: Exit if no changes have been made.

6.4. Search and Replace Shortcuts

/pattern: Search for the specified pattern. Press n to move to the next occurrence.
:s/old/new/g: Replace all occurrences of “old” with “new” in the current line.
:%s/old/new/g: Replace all occurrences of “old” with “new” in the entire file.
:%s/old/new/gc: Replace all occurrences of “old” with “new” in the entire file, with confirmation for each replacement.

6.5. Visual Mode Shortcuts

Visual mode allows you to select blocks of text for editing.

v: Enter visual mode (character-wise).
V: Enter visual mode (line-wise).
Ctrl + v: Enter visual block mode.
After selecting text in visual mode, you can use commands like d (delete), y (yank), or c (change).

6.6. Practical Examples of Using Shortcuts

Quickly Moving Around:
- To jump to the end of a long file, press Esc and then type G.
- To go back to the beginning, press Esc and then type gg.
Efficiently Editing Text:
- To delete an entire line, move the cursor to the line and press Esc followed by dd.
- To copy a line and paste it below, press Esc, then yy to yank, move the cursor, and press p to paste.
Searching and Replacing:
- To find all occurrences of a word and replace them, press Esc, then type :%s/old/new/g and press Enter.

6.7. Tips for Mastering Vi Shortcuts

Start with the Basics: Begin by learning the most common navigation and editing shortcuts.
Practice Regularly: Use Vi for your daily text editing tasks to reinforce your knowledge.
Use Cheat Sheets: Keep a Vi cheat sheet handy for quick reference.
Customize Your Configuration: Modify your .vimrc file to add custom shortcuts and settings.
Learn Incrementally: Gradually add new shortcuts to your repertoire as you become more comfortable.

By investing time in learning Vi shortcuts, you can transform your text editing workflow and achieve remarkable efficiency.

7. How Can I Customize the Vi Editor?

Customizing Vi, particularly Vim, allows you to tailor the editor to your specific needs and preferences, enhancing your productivity and comfort.

7.1. The `.vimrc` File

The primary way to customize Vim is through the .vimrc file, which is a configuration file that Vim reads upon startup. This file contains settings, commands, and custom mappings that modify Vim’s behavior.

7.1.1. Location of `.vimrc`

The location of the .vimrc file depends on your operating system:

Linux/Unix: ~/.vimrc
Windows: C:UsersYourUsername_vimrc or C:UsersYourUsernamevimfiles_vimrc

7.1.2. Creating or Editing `.vimrc`

If the .vimrc file doesn’t exist, you can create it using Vi itself or any other text editor. To edit it using Vi:

$ vi ~/.vimrc

7.2. Basic Customizations

7.2.1. Setting Options

Options control various aspects of Vim’s behavior. They can be set in the .vimrc file using the set command.

Setting Line Numbers:
```
set number
```
This displays line numbers in the editor.
Enabling Syntax Highlighting:
```
syntax on
```
This enables syntax highlighting for various programming languages.
Setting Indentation:
```
set tabstop=4
set shiftwidth=4
set expandtab
```
These settings configure tab width, shift width, and convert tabs to spaces for consistent indentation.
Enabling Mouse Support:
```
set mouse=a
```
This enables mouse support for scrolling and selecting text.

7.2.2. Creating Custom Mappings

Mappings allow you to assign custom commands to specific key combinations. This can streamline frequently used actions.

Mapping <F5> to Save and Compile (for C++):
```
map <F5> :w !g++ % -o %<< && ./%<<
```
This mapping saves the current file, compiles it using g++, and then executes the compiled program.
Mapping <F2> to Toggle Line Numbers:
```
map <F2> :set number!
```
This toggles the display of line numbers each time you press <F2>.

7.2.3. Installing Plugins

Plugins extend Vim’s functionality with features like file explorers, code completion, and advanced syntax highlighting.

Using Vundle (a Plugin Manager):
1. Install Vundle by following the instructions on its GitHub page.
2. Add plugins to your .vimrc file:
```
Plugin 'VundleVim/Vundle.vim'
Plugin 'nerdtree' " NERDTree file explorer
Plugin 'vim-airline/vim-airline' " Airline status bar
```
3. Run :PluginInstall in Vim to install the plugins.

7.3. Advanced Customizations

7.3.1. Autocommands

Autocommands execute specific commands automatically when certain events occur.

Automatically Remove Trailing Whitespace on Save:
```
autocmd BufWritePre * :%s/s+$//e
```
This removes trailing whitespace from every line before saving the file.
Automatically Set File Type and Indentation:
```
autocmd BufNewFile,BufRead *.py set filetype=python
autocmd FileType python set tabstop=4 shiftwidth=4 expandtab
```
This sets the file type to Python for .py files and configures indentation accordingly.

7.3.2. Custom Functions

You can define custom functions in your .vimrc to perform complex tasks.

Function to Trim Whitespace:
```
function! TrimWhitespace()
  %s/s+$//e
  %s/^s+//e
endfunction

command! Trim call TrimWhitespace()
```
This defines a function to trim both leading and trailing whitespace and creates a custom command Trim to execute it.

7.4. Practical Examples of Customizations

Improving Code Readability:
- Enable syntax highlighting and line numbers.
- Set a color scheme that is easy on the eyes.
Streamlining Development Workflow:
- Create mappings to compile and run code with a single keystroke.
- Install plugins for code completion and linting.
Enhancing Text Editing:
- Customize key mappings for frequently used commands.
- Install plugins for text formatting and manipulation.

7.5. Tips for Customizing Vi

Start Small: Begin with basic customizations and gradually add more complex settings as you become comfortable.
Read Documentation: Consult the Vim documentation for detailed information on options, commands, and plugins.
Use Online Resources: Explore online forums, blogs, and tutorials for inspiration and guidance.
Backup Your .vimrc: Regularly back up your .vimrc file to prevent data loss.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings and plugins to find what works best for you.

By customizing Vi, you can create a powerful and efficient text editing environment that is perfectly tailored to your needs.

8. What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid in Vi Editor?

Using Vi can be efficient once you’re familiar with its commands, but it’s easy to make mistakes, especially when starting. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

8.1. Forgetting to Switch Modes

One of the most common mistakes is forgetting which mode you’re in. Vi operates in two primary modes: Command mode and Insert mode.

Problem: Trying to type text in Command mode or trying to execute commands in Insert mode.
Solution:
- Always be aware of the current mode.
- Press Esc to ensure you are in Command mode before executing commands.
- Use i, a, o, etc., to enter Insert mode when you want to type text.

8.2. Unintentionally Overwriting Files

It’s possible to accidentally overwrite a file if you’re not careful with save commands.

Problem: Using :w without specifying a file name when you intend to save to a new file, or accidentally saving changes you didn’t mean to make.
Solution:
- Double-check the file name when using :w newfile.txt.
- Always create backups of important files before editing them.
- Use :q! to quit without saving if you make unwanted changes.

8.3. Getting Locked Out of Editing Due to Permissions

Sometimes, you might not have the necessary permissions to save a file, especially system configuration files.

Problem: Trying to save a file and getting a “Permission denied” error.
Solution:
- Use :w !sudo tee % to save the file with superuser permissions.
- Ensure you have the correct permissions to modify the file.

8.4. Losing Changes Due to Not Saving

Forgetting to save your changes can lead to data loss, especially if the editor or system crashes.

Problem: Making changes and then exiting without saving, resulting in the loss of your work.
Solution:
- Save your work frequently using :w or ZZ.
- Get into the habit of saving before exiting Vi.

8.5. Misusing Search and Replace

Search and replace commands are powerful, but they can also cause unintended changes if not used carefully.

Problem: Replacing text incorrectly or replacing too much text due to a poorly formed search pattern.
Solution:
- Test your search pattern before using it in a replace command.
- Use :%s/old/new/gc to confirm each replacement before it is made.
- Be specific with your search patterns to avoid unintended matches.

8.6. Incorrectly Using Undo and Redo

Misunderstanding how undo and redo work can lead to confusion and frustration.

Problem: Accidentally undoing too many changes or not knowing how to redo a change.
Solution:
- Use u to undo the last change.
- Use Ctrl + r to redo the last undone change.
- Be aware of whether your Vi implementation supports single-level or multi-level undo.

8.7. Ignoring Error Messages

Vi displays error messages to alert you to potential problems, but it’s easy to overlook them.

Problem: Ignoring error messages and proceeding with an action that causes further issues.
Solution:
- Pay attention to any error messages Vi displays.
- Read the messages carefully to understand the problem and how to resolve it.

8.8. Relying Too Heavily on Mouse

While some Vi implementations support mouse input, relying too heavily on it can reduce efficiency.

Problem: Using the mouse for navigation and text selection instead of keyboard shortcuts.
Solution:
- Learn and use keyboard shortcuts for navigation and editing.
- Use the mouse sparingly for tasks that are difficult to accomplish with the keyboard.

8.9. Not Customizing Vi

Vi is highly customizable, but many users don’t take advantage of this feature.

Problem: Using Vi with its default settings, which may not be optimal for your workflow.
Solution:
- Customize your .vimrc file to set options, create mappings, and install plugins.
- Tailor Vi to your specific needs and preferences.

8.10. Tips for Avoiding Mistakes

Practice Regularly: Use Vi for your daily text editing tasks to become more comfortable with its commands and shortcuts.
Use Cheat Sheets: Keep a Vi cheat sheet handy for quick reference.
Read Documentation: Consult the Vi documentation for detailed information on commands and options.
Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings and plugins to find what works best for you.

By being aware of these common mistakes and following these tips, you can avoid pitfalls and become a more proficient Vi user.

9. What Are the Key Differences Between Vi and Other Text Editors?

Vi differs significantly from other text editors like Nano, Emacs, and GUI-based editors such as VSCode or Sublime Text. These differences stem from its modal editing, command-line interface, and focus on efficiency through keyboard shortcuts.

9.1. Modal Editing

Vi: Uses modal editing, with distinct Command and Insert modes. This allows for efficient text manipulation and navigation using keyboard shortcuts.
Other Editors: Most other editors use modeless editing, where you can directly type and edit text without switching modes.

9.2. Command-Line Interface

Vi: Primarily a command-line editor, although enhanced versions like Vim have GUI options.
Other Editors: Many modern text editors are GUI-based, providing a visual interface with menus, buttons, and mouse support.

9.3. Keyboard Shortcuts

Vi: Heavily relies on keyboard shortcuts for almost all operations, from navigation to editing to saving and exiting.
Other Editors: While they also support keyboard shortcuts, they often rely more on mouse-driven actions and menu selections.

9.4. Resource Usage

Vi: Lightweight and efficient, with minimal resource requirements. This makes it ideal for use on remote servers and systems with limited resources.
Other Editors: GUI-based editors tend to be more resource-intensive due to their graphical interfaces and additional features.

9.5. Customization

Vi (Vim): Highly customizable through the .vimrc file, allowing users to tailor the editor to their specific needs and preferences.
Other Editors: Offer customization options, but the level of customization can vary. Some editors provide extensive plugin support, while others have more limited options.

9.6. Learning Curve

Vi: Has a steeper learning curve due to its modal editing and reliance on keyboard shortcuts.
Other Editors: Generally easier to learn, especially for users familiar with GUI-based applications.

9.7. Use Cases

Vi: Best suited for system administrators, developers, and power users who need a lightweight, efficient editor for quick edits and remote server management.
Other Editors: More versatile and suitable for a wider range of tasks, including software development, web design, and general text editing.

9.8. Comparison Table

Feature	Vi (Vim)	Nano	Emacs	VSCode	Sublime Text
Editing Mode	Modal	Modeless	Modeless	Modeless	Modeless
Interface	Command-line (GUI available for Vim)	Command-line	Command-line (GUI available)	GUI	GUI
Resource Usage	Low	Low	Moderate	High	Moderate
Customization	High (through `.vimrc` and plugins)	Limited	High (through `.emacs` and plugins)	High (through settings and extensions)	High (through settings and packages)
Learning Curve	Steep	Easy	Steep	Moderate	Moderate
Key Bindings	Extensive, often non-intuitive	Simpler, more intuitive	Extensive, customizable	Customizable	Customizable
Use Cases	System admin, quick edits, remote servers	Simple text editing, beginners	Software development, power users	Software development, web development	Software development, web development
Plugin/Package Support	Excellent (Vim)	None	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent