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Vim Macros: Record and Replay Edits
Learn macro recording and replay patterns to automate repetitive edits in Vim.
Published: 2026-03-09Updated: 2026-03-09
Macros let you capture one clean edit sequence and replay it across many targets.
Record a macro
Start with q{register}, perform the edit, and stop with q. Replay with @{register} or a count prefix.
Make macros stable
Use motions that are resilient to line differences and test on a second line before bulk replay.
Common Mistakes
- •Recording accidental cursor moves.
- •Skipping a dry-run before replaying with a count.
FAQ
What register should I use for macros?
Use temporary registers like a or b while practicing, and overwrite as needed.
Can macros call other macros?
Yes, but keep nested macros short to avoid hard-to-debug loops.