Exiting vi Editor in Linux: Save and Quit Shortcuts
When it comes to editing files in Linux, the vi editor is a powerful and versatile tool. However, for beginners, exiting vi can be a bit confusing. In this guide, we will walk you through the various save and quit shortcuts to help you navigate the vi editor efficiently.
Understanding the vi Editor
Before diving into the exit commands, let’s first understand the basic modes of the vi editor:
- Command Mode: The default mode where you can navigate through the file and enter commands.
- Insert Mode: Allows you to insert and edit text in the file.
- Last Line Mode: Used for saving, quitting, and executing other commands.
Save and Quit Shortcuts
Here are the key shortcuts to save and exit vi editor:
- Saving Changes:
- :w – Save changes to the file without quitting.
- :w filename – Save the file with a new filename.
- Exiting vi:
- :q – Quit vi editor.
- :q! – Force quit vi editor without saving changes.
- :wq or 😡 – Save changes and exit vi.
- ZZ – Save changes and exit vi.
- i – Switch to Insert mode.
- Esc – Return to Command mode from Insert mode.
- dd – Delete a line.
- u – Undo the last change.
Additional Commands
Here are some additional commands to enhance your vi editing experience:
Conclusion
Mastering the vi editor is essential for efficient file editing in Linux. By familiarising yourself with the save and quit shortcuts, you can streamline your editing workflow and increase productivity. Practice using these commands regularly to become proficient in navigating the vi editor with ease.

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