⚡ Quick Start: VS Code + Vim keybindings | Works with AntiGravity Cursor | Copy-paste ready config | 5-min setup | Full version: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode (50+ keybindings, LazyVim-inspired, multi-editor support)

keybindings.json

[
  // ╔══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
  // ║                   VSCODE VIM LAZYVIM KEYBINDINGS                                  ║
  // ║                   Modifier Key Bindings (Ctrl, Alt, Shift)                        ║
  // ╚══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
  //
  // This file contains keybindings that use modifier keys (Ctrl, Alt, Shift) and special
  // characters that need VSCode's key binding system (not Vim's).
  //
  // IMPORTANT: DO NOT put space-leader bindings here (<leader>...)
  // Those belong in settings.json under vim.normalModeKeyBindingsNonRecursive
  //
  // FILE ORGANIZATION:
  // - Window navigation (Ctrl+h/j/k/l)
  // - Buffer navigation (Shift+h/l, [b, ]b)
  // - Diagnostic navigation ([d, ]d, [e, ]e)
  // - Quickfix navigation ([q, ]q)
  // - Git hunk navigation ([h, ]h)
  // - Suggestion/autocomplete navigation
  // - File explorer navigation
  // - Terminal toggle
  // - Line movement (Alt+j/k)
  //
  // SPECIAL KEY CODES:
  // - oem_4 = [ (left bracket)
  // - oem_6 = ] (right bracket)
  // - oem_2 = / (forward slash)
  // - oem_1 = ; (semicolon)
  //
  // For keyboard layout independence, you can use scan codes instead:
  // - [BracketLeft] instead of oem_4
  // - [BracketRight] instead of oem_6
  // - [Slash] instead of oem_2
  //
  // WHEN CLAUSES:
  // The "when" field controls when a binding is active. Common contexts:
  // - editorTextFocus: cursor is in an editor
  // - vim.active: Vim extension is active
  // - vim.mode: current Vim mode (Normal, Insert, Visual)
  // - suggestWidgetVisible: autocomplete menu is open
  // - inQuickOpen: Quick Open (Ctrl+P) is open
  // - terminalFocus: terminal is focused
  // - listFocus: a list (explorer, search) has focus
  //
  // ══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ WINDOW NAVIGATION - Ctrl+h/j/k/l (LazyVim: <C-h/j/k/l>)                            │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate between editor splits using Vim-style hjkl keys with Ctrl modifier.
  // These work in Normal mode and are disabled when:
  // - Terminal is focused (so Ctrl+h/j/k/l work normally in terminal)
  // - Suggestion widget is visible (so Ctrl+j/k navigate suggestions)
  // - Quick Open is active (so Ctrl+j/k navigate file list)
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+h",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusLeftGroup",
    "when": "!terminalFocus && vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert'"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+l",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusRightGroup",
    "when": "!terminalFocus && vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert'"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+j",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusBelowGroup",
    "when": "!terminalFocus && !suggestWidgetVisible && !inQuickOpen && vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert'"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+k",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusAboveGroup",
    "when": "!terminalFocus && !suggestWidgetVisible && !inQuickOpen && vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ WINDOW RESIZING - Ctrl+Arrow Keys (LazyVim: <C-Up/Down/Left/Right>)                │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Resize editor splits using Ctrl+Arrow keys. Only active in Normal mode to avoid
  // interfering with text editing shortcuts (Ctrl+Left/Right normally jump words).
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+up",
    "command": "workbench.action.increaseViewHeight",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+down",
    "command": "workbench.action.decreaseViewHeight",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+left",
    "command": "workbench.action.decreaseViewWidth",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+right",
    "command": "workbench.action.increaseViewWidth",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ BUFFER NAVIGATION - Shift+h/l (LazyVim: <S-h>, <S-l>)                              │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Switch between open editor tabs using Shift+H (previous) and Shift+L (next).
  // Only active in Normal/Visual modes to avoid conflicts with text selection.
  // Alternative: Use [b and ]b (defined below) for the same functionality.
  //
  {
    "key": "shift+h",
    "command": "workbench.action.previousEditor",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert'"
  },
  {
    "key": "shift+l",
    "command": "workbench.action.nextEditor",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ LINE MOVEMENT - Alt+j/k (LazyVim: <A-j>, <A-k>)                                    │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Move lines up/down using Alt+J/K. Works in Normal and Visual modes.
  // In Visual mode, moves the entire selection.
  //
  {
    "key": "alt+j",
    "command": "editor.action.moveLinesDownAction",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && !editorReadonly"
  },
  {
    "key": "alt+k",
    "command": "editor.action.moveLinesUpAction",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && !editorReadonly"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ SAVE FILE - Ctrl+s (LazyVim: <C-s>)                                                │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Standard save shortcut. Works in all modes.
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+s",
    "command": "workbench.action.files.save",
    "when": "editorTextFocus"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ TERMINAL TOGGLE - Ctrl+/ (LazyVim: <C-/>)                                          │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Toggle terminal panel visibility using Ctrl+/.
  // - If terminal is hidden: opens and focuses it
  // - If terminal is visible and focused: closes it
  // - If terminal is visible but not focused: focuses it
  //
  // Note: oem_2 is the / (forward slash) key
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+oem_2",
    "command": "workbench.action.terminal.toggleTerminal"
  },

  // Alternative terminal toggle that focuses terminal if not focused
  {
    "key": "ctrl+oem_2",
    "command": "workbench.action.terminal.focus",
    "when": "!terminalFocus"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ TERMINAL NAVIGATION - Ctrl+; (bidirectional toggle)                                │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Use Ctrl+; to jump between editor and terminal without closing it:
  // - When in editor: jumps to terminal (opens if closed)
  // - When in terminal: jumps back to editor
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+;",
    "command": "workbench.action.terminal.focus",
    "when": "!terminalFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+;",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusActiveEditorGroup",
    "when": "terminalFocus"
  }

  // #TODO: EXPERIMENTAL - TO TEST AND VALIDATE!
  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ SUGGESTION WIDGET NAVIGATION - Ctrl+j/k when autocomplete is visible               │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate autocomplete suggestions using Vim-style j/k keys.
  // These override the window navigation when suggestion widget is visible.
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+j",
    "command": "selectNextSuggestion",
    "when": "suggestWidgetVisible"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+k",
    "command": "selectPrevSuggestion",
    "when": "suggestWidgetVisible"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+d",
    "command": "selectNextPageSuggestion",
    "when": "suggestWidgetVisible"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+u",
    "command": "selectPrevPageSuggestion",
    "when": "suggestWidgetVisible"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ QUICK OPEN NAVIGATION - Ctrl+j/k when file picker is open                          │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate Quick Open (Ctrl+P) file list using Vim-style j/k keys.
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+j",
    "command": "workbench.action.quickOpenSelectNext",
    "when": "inQuickOpen"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+k",
    "command": "workbench.action.quickOpenSelectPrevious",
    "when": "inQuickOpen"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ DIAGNOSTICS NAVIGATION - [d, ]d (all files) and [e, ]e (current file)              │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // LazyVim diagnostic navigation using bracket prefix:
  // - [d / ]d = previous/next diagnostic across all files
  // - [e / ]e = previous/next diagnostic in current file only
  //
  // SPECIAL KEY CODES:
  // - oem_4 = [ (left bracket)
  // - oem_6 = ] (right bracket)
  //
  // On non-US keyboards, you may need to use scan codes instead:
  // - "key": "[BracketLeft] d" instead of "key": "oem_4 d"
  //
  // Only active in Normal mode to prevent conflicts when typing brackets in Insert mode.
  //
  {
    "key": "oem_4 d",                                  // [d = previous diagnostic (all files)
    "command": "editor.action.marker.prevInFiles",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "oem_6 d",                                  // ]d = next diagnostic (all files)
    "command": "editor.action.marker.nextInFiles",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "oem_4 e",                                  // [e = previous diagnostic (current file)
    "command": "editor.action.marker.prev",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "oem_6 e",                                  // ]e = next diagnostic (current file)
    "command": "editor.action.marker.next",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ QUICKFIX/SEARCH RESULTS NAVIGATION - [q, ]q                                        │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate search results using bracket prefix.
  // Only active when search results exist and in Normal mode.
  //
  {
    "key": "oem_4 q",                                  // [q = previous search result
    "command": "search.action.focusPreviousSearchResult",
    "when": "hasSearchResult && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "oem_6 q",                                  // ]q = next search result
    "command": "search.action.focusNextSearchResult",
    "when": "hasSearchResult && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ BUFFER NAVIGATION - [b, ]b (alternate method)                                      │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Alternative buffer navigation using bracket prefix (same as Shift+H/L).
  // Some users prefer this LazyVim pattern for consistency with other bracket navigation.
  //
  {
    "key": "oem_4 b",                                  // [b = previous buffer/editor
    "command": "workbench.action.previousEditor",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "oem_6 b",                                  // ]b = next buffer/editor
    "command": "workbench.action.nextEditor",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ GIT HUNK NAVIGATION - [h, ]h (requires Git or GitLens)                             │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate between git changes/hunks in the current file.
  // Works with native VSCode git or GitLens extension.
  //
  {
    "key": "oem_4 h",                                  // [h = previous git change
    "command": "workbench.action.editor.previousChange",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },
  {
    "key": "oem_6 h",                                  // ]h = next git change
    "command": "workbench.action.editor.nextChange",
    "when": "editorTextFocus && vim.active && vim.mode == 'Normal'"
  },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ FILE EXPLORER NAVIGATION - Ctrl+h/j/k/l when explorer is focused                   │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate file explorer using Vim keys when it has focus:
  // - j/k = down/up
  // - h = collapse folder or go to parent
  // - l = expand folder or open file
  //
  // IMPORTANT: These must come AFTER the window navigation bindings above.
  // VSCode processes keybindings from bottom to top, so more specific contexts
  // (explorerViewletVisible) override more general ones (!terminalFocus).
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+j",
    "command": "list.focusDown",
    "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+k",
    "command": "list.focusUp",
    "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+h",
    "command": "list.collapse",
    "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+l",
    "command": "list.select",
    "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  },

  // Alternative: Use j/k without Ctrl for explorer navigation (more Vim-like)
  // Uncomment these if you prefer plain j/k in the explorer:
  // {
  //   "key": "j",
  //   "command": "list.focusDown",
  //   "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  // },
  // {
  //   "key": "k",
  //   "command": "list.focusUp",
  //   "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  // },
  // {
  //   "key": "h",
  //   "command": "list.collapse",
  //   "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  // },
  // {
  //   "key": "l",
  //   "command": "list.select",
  //   "when": "explorerViewletVisible && filesExplorerFocus && !inputFocus"
  // },

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ SEARCH/PROBLEMS PANEL NAVIGATION - j/k when panel has focus                        │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Navigate lists in search results and problems panel using j/k.
  //
  {
    "key": "j",
    "command": "list.focusDown",
    "when": "listFocus && !inputFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "k",
    "command": "list.focusUp",
    "when": "listFocus && !inputFocus"
  },

  // Navigate in panels with Ctrl+j/k as alternative
  {
    "key": "ctrl+j",
    "command": "list.focusDown",
    "when": "panelFocus && !terminalFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+k",
    "command": "list.focusUp",
    "when": "panelFocus && !terminalFocus"
  },

// ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ FOCUS EDITOR GROUPS - Ctrl+1/2/3                                                   │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Quickly jump to specific editor groups/splits.
  // Useful when you have multiple splits and want to jump directly to one.
  //
  {
    "key": "ctrl+1",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusFirstEditorGroup"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+2",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusSecondEditorGroup"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+3",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusThirdEditorGroup"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+4",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusFourthEditorGroup"
  },
  {
    "key": "ctrl+5",
    "command": "workbench.action.focusFifthEditorGroup"
  }

  // ══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
  // TROUBLESHOOTING NOTES
  // ══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
  //
  // BRACKET KEYS NOT WORKING ([d, ]d, etc.):
  //
  // 1. UK/Non-US Keyboard Layouts:
  //    If you're on a non-US keyboard, the oem_4 and oem_6 codes might not work.
  //    Replace them with scan codes:
  //    - "key": "[BracketLeft] d" instead of "key": "oem_4 d"
  //    - "key": "[BracketRight] d" instead of "key": "oem_6 d"
  //
  // 2. MacOS:
  //    Brackets might require different key codes. Try:
  //    - "key": "[BracketLeft] d"
  //    - "key": "[BracketRight] d"
  //
  // 3. Testing bracket keys:
  //    Open VSCode Keyboard Shortcuts UI (Ctrl+K Ctrl+S / Cmd+K Cmd+S)
  //    Try to record your bracket key to see what VSCode detects it as
  //
  // CONFLICTS WITH OTHER EXTENSIONS:
  //
  // If keybindings don't work, check for conflicts:
  // 1. Open Keyboard Shortcuts UI (Ctrl+K Ctrl+S / Cmd+K Cmd+S)
  // 2. Search for the key combination (e.g., "ctrl+h")
  // 3. Look for duplicate bindings from other extensions
  // 4. Either disable the conflicting extension or modify your binding
  //
  // WHEN CLAUSES NOT WORKING:
  //
  // To debug when clauses:
  // 1. Open Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P / Cmd+Shift+P)
  // 2. Run "Developer: Inspect Context Keys"
  // 3. This shows all active context keys for debugging
  //
  // VALIDATION CHECKLIST:
  // □ Ctrl+h/j/k/l navigates between splits
  // □ Shift+h/l switches buffers
  // □ [d / ]d navigates diagnostics
  // □ [b / ]b switches buffers
  // □ Ctrl+j/k navigates suggestions when autocomplete is open
  // □ Ctrl+j/k navigates file list when Quick Open is active
  // □ Alt+j/k moves lines up/down
  // □ Ctrl+/ toggles terminal
  //
  // ══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
]

settings.json

{
  // ╔══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
  // ║                   VSCODE VIM LAZYVIM CONFIGURATION                                ║
  // ║                   Complete Settings for LazyVim Alignment                         ║
  // ╚══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
  //
  // This configuration provides LazyVim-style keybindings in VSCode using the Vim extension.
  //
  // REQUIRED EXTENSIONS:
  // - vscodevim.vim (VSCode Vim) - Core requirement
  //
  // RECOMMENDED EXTENSIONS:
  // - eamodio.gitlens (GitLens) - For git operations like blame, history
  // - hoovercj.vscode-settings-cycler (Settings Cycler) - For line number toggling
  // - VSpaceCode.whichkey (Which Key) - For keybinding discovery menus
  // - usernamehw.errorlens (Error Lens) - Inline diagnostics display
  //
  // PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION:
  // The extensions.experimental.affinity setting (at bottom of file) runs Vim extension
  // in a separate thread to prevent typing lag. This is CRITICAL for performance.
  //
  // FILE ORGANIZATION:
  // This file contains ALL space-leader keybindings (<leader>...). Standard VSCode keybindings
  // that don't use the leader key go in keybindings.json to prevent conflicts.
  //
  // ══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // EDITOR SETTINGS - Visual appearance and behaviour
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  
  "editor.lineNumbers": "relative",                    // Relative line numbers (Vim-style)
  "editor.scrollBeyondLastLine": false,                // Don't scroll past end of file
  "editor.cursorSurroundingLines": 8,                  // Keep 8 lines above/below cursor (matches LazyVim scrolloff)
  "editor.smoothScrolling": true,                      // Smooth scrolling animations
  "editor.bracketPairColorization.enabled": true,      // Colour matching brackets
  "editor.guides.bracketPairs": true,                  // Show bracket pair guides
  "editor.minimap.renderCharacters": false,            // Simplified minimap
  "editor.minimap.scale": 2,                           // Larger minimap scale
  "editor.cursorBlinking": "solid",                    // Solid cursor (Vim-like)
  "editor.formatOnSave": false,                        // Format on save (set to true if desired)

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // VIM EXTENSION CORE SETTINGS - Vim behaviour and plugin emulation
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

  "vim.leader": "<space>",                             // Space as leader key (LazyVim standard)
  "vim.useSystemClipboard": true,                      // Use system clipboard for yank/paste
  "vim.useCtrlKeys": true,                             // Enable Vim Ctrl key bindings
  "vim.smartRelativeLine": true,                       // Absolute line numbers in insert mode

  // Vim plugin emulations (built into VSCode Vim extension)
  "vim.easymotion": true,                              // Enable EasyMotion (use <leader><leader>w etc)
  "vim.sneak": true,                                   // Enable vim-sneak (use s/S for 2-char search)
  "vim.surround": true,                                // Enable vim-surround (ys/ds/cs commands)
  "vim.foldfix": true,                                 // Better folding support

  // Search settings
  "vim.incsearch": true,                               // Incremental search (show matches as you type)
  "vim.hlsearch": true,                                // Highlight search results
  "vim.searchHighlightColor": "rgba(180, 142, 173, 0.5)", // Search highlight colour

  // Visual feedback
  "vim.highlightedyank.enable": true,                  // Briefly highlight yanked text
  "vim.highlightedyank.duration": 200,                 // Highlight duration in milliseconds

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // STATUS BAR COLORS - Visual mode indicators (LazyVim-inspired colours)
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

  "vim.statusBarColorControl": true,                   // Enable status bar colour changes
  "vim.statusBarColors.normal": "#519aba",             // Blue for normal mode
  "vim.statusBarColors.insert": "#98c379",             // Green for insert mode
  "vim.statusBarColors.visual": "#c678dd",             // Purple for visual mode
  "vim.statusBarColors.visualline": "#c678dd",         // Purple for visual line mode
  "vim.statusBarColors.visualblock": "#c678dd",        // Purple for visual block mode
  "vim.statusBarColors.replace": "#e06c75",            // Red for replace mode

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // HANDLE KEYS - Which keys are processed by Vim vs VSCode
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  //
  // IMPORTANT: This section determines whether a key combination is handled by the Vim
  // extension (true) or passed to VSCode (false). This prevents conflicts between Vim
  // commands and VSCode shortcuts.
  //
  // - true = Vim extension handles the key (e.g., <C-d> for page down in Vim)
  // - false = VSCode handles the key (e.g., <C-f> for native find dialogue)
  //
  "vim.handleKeys": {
    "<C-d>": true,      // Vim page down (half-page scroll)
    "<C-u>": true,      // Vim page up (half-page scroll)
    "<C-f>": false,     // VSCode find (don't override with Vim's full page down)
    "<C-b>": false,     // VSCode sidebar toggle (don't override with Vim's page up)
    "<C-h>": false,     // VSCode window navigation (defined in keybindings.json)
    "<C-j>": false,     // VSCode window navigation (defined in keybindings.json)
    "<C-k>": false,     // VSCode window navigation (defined in keybindings.json)
    "<C-l>": false,     // VSCode window navigation (defined in keybindings.json)
    "<C-w>": false,     // VSCode close tab (don't override Vim's window commands)
    "<C-s>": false,     // VSCode save file (standard shortcut)
    "<C-a>": false,     // VSCode select all (standard shortcut)
    "<C-c>": false,     // VSCode copy (standard shortcut)
    "<C-v>": false,     // VSCode paste (standard shortcut)
    "<C-z>": false      // VSCode undo (standard shortcut)
  },

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // INSERT MODE KEYBINDINGS - Escape alternatives
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────

  "vim.insertModeKeyBindings": [
    {
      "before": ["j", "k"],                            // jk to escape (LazyVim default)
      "after": ["<Esc>"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["j", "j"],                            // jj to escape (alternative)
      "after": ["<Esc>"]
    }
  ],

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // NORMAL MODE KEYBINDINGS - Space-leader mappings (LazyVim alignment)
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  //
  // CRITICAL: All space-leader bindings (<leader>...) MUST be defined here in settings.json,
  // NOT in keybindings.json. The Vim extension needs to intercept these before VSCode sees them.
  //
  // Pattern reference (matches LazyVim):
  //   <leader>f* = File operations
  //   <leader>s* = Search operations
  //   <leader>c* = Code actions (LSP)
  //   <leader>b* = Buffer management
  //   <leader>g* = Git operations
  //   <leader>w* = Window management
  //   <leader>x* = Diagnostics/Quickfix
  //   <leader>u* = UI toggles
  //
  "vim.normalModeKeyBindingsNonRecursive": [

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ GENERAL UTILITY MAPPINGS                                                       │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "d"],                     // <leader>d = delete line (dd shortcut)
      "after": ["d", "d"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<Esc>"],                             // Escape clears search highlight
      "commands": [":nohl"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "u", "r"],                // <leader>ur = clear search (LazyVim "unredraw")
      "commands": [":nohl"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<C-n>"],                             // Ctrl+n also clears search highlight
      "commands": [":nohl"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["K"],                                 // K = show hover documentation (LSP)
      "commands": ["editor.action.showHover"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ FILE OPERATIONS - <leader>f* prefix                                            │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim file operations pattern for finding, creating, and managing files
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "<space>"],               // <leader><space> = find files (Quick Open)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.quickOpen"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", ","],                     // <leader>, = switch buffer (Quick Open Editors)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.showAllEditors"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "/"],                     // <leader>/ = search in files (Live Grep equivalent)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.findInFiles"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "f", "f"],                // <leader>ff = find files (same as <leader><space>)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.quickOpen"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "f", "r"],                // <leader>fr = recent files
      "commands": ["workbench.action.openRecent"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "f", "n"],                // <leader>fn = new file
      "commands": ["workbench.action.files.newUntitledFile"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "f", "b"],                // <leader>fb = buffers (open editors)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.showAllEditors"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "f", "e"],                // <leader>fe = file explorer (reveal active file)
      "commands": ["workbench.files.action.showActiveFileInExplorer"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "f", "t"],                // <leader>ft = toggle terminal
      "commands": ["workbench.action.terminal.toggleTerminal"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "e"],                     // <leader>e = toggle sidebar
      "commands": ["workbench.action.toggleSidebarVisibility"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "E"],                     // <leader>E = focus file explorer
      "commands": ["workbench.files.action.focusFilesExplorer"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ SEARCH OPERATIONS - <leader>s* prefix                                          │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim search operations for finding text, symbols, and configuration
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "g"],                // <leader>sg = grep/search in files
      "commands": ["workbench.action.findInFiles"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "w"],                // <leader>sw = search word under cursor
      "commands": ["workbench.action.findInFiles"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "r"],                // <leader>sr = search and replace in files
      "commands": ["workbench.action.replaceInFiles"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "s"],                // <leader>ss = goto symbol in file
      "commands": ["workbench.action.gotoSymbol"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "S"],                // <leader>sS = goto symbol in workspace
      "commands": ["workbench.action.showAllSymbols"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "k"],                // <leader>sk = keymaps (open keyboard shortcuts)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.openGlobalKeybindings"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "c"],                // <leader>sc = command palette
      "commands": ["workbench.action.showCommands"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "s", "h"],                // <leader>sh = help (all commands)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.showAllCommands"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ CODE ACTIONS - <leader>c* prefix (LSP operations)                              │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim code actions for LSP features like formatting, refactoring, diagnostics
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "a"],                // <leader>ca = code action (quick fix)
      "commands": ["editor.action.quickFix"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "A"],                // <leader>cA = source action
      "commands": ["editor.action.sourceAction"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "f"],                // <leader>cf = format document
      "commands": ["editor.action.formatDocument"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "F"],                // <leader>cF = format selection
      "commands": ["editor.action.formatSelection"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "r"],                // <leader>cr = rename symbol
      "commands": ["editor.action.rename"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "d"],                // <leader>cd = line diagnostics (hover)
      "commands": ["editor.action.showHover"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "l"],                // <leader>cl = open problems panel
      "commands": ["workbench.action.problems.focus"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "o"],                // <leader>co = organise imports
      "commands": ["editor.action.organizeImports"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ LSP NAVIGATION - g* prefix (goto definitions, references, etc.)                │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // Standard Vim LSP navigation bindings (matches LazyVim defaults)
    //

    {
      "before": ["g", "d"],                            // gd = goto definition
      "commands": ["editor.action.revealDefinition"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["g", "D"],                            // gD = goto declaration
      "commands": ["editor.action.revealDeclaration"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["g", "r"],                            // gr = goto references
      "commands": ["editor.action.goToReferences"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["g", "I"],                            // gI = goto implementation
      "commands": ["editor.action.goToImplementation"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["g", "y"],                            // gy = goto type definition
      "commands": ["editor.action.goToTypeDefinition"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["g", "K"],                            // gK = signature help (parameter hints)
      "commands": ["editor.action.triggerParameterHints"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ BUFFER MANAGEMENT - <leader>b* prefix                                          │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim buffer operations for managing open files/tabs
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "b", "b"],                // <leader>bb = switch buffer (show all editors)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.showAllEditors"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "b", "d"],                // <leader>bd = delete buffer (close tab)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.closeActiveEditor"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "b", "D"],                // <leader>bD = delete other buffers
      "commands": ["workbench.action.closeOtherEditors"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "b", "o"],                // <leader>bo = close other editors (same as bD)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.closeOtherEditors"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "b", "p"],                // <leader>bp = pin buffer (pin tab)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.pinEditor"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "b", "P"],                // <leader>bP = unpin buffer
      "commands": ["workbench.action.unpinEditor"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "`"],                     // <leader>` = last buffer (alternate file)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.quickOpenPreviousRecentlyUsedEditorInGroup"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<S-h>"],                             // Shift+h = previous buffer
      "commands": [":bprev"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<S-l>"],                             // Shift+l = next buffer
      "commands": [":bnext"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ GIT OPERATIONS - <leader>g* prefix (requires GitLens extension)                │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim git operations. Most features require GitLens extension for full functionality.
    // Without GitLens, basic git commands (gg, gs, gd) still work with native VSCode git.
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "g"],                // <leader>gg = git status (open source control)
      "commands": ["workbench.view.scm"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "s"],                // <leader>gs = git status (same as gg)
      "commands": ["workbench.view.scm"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "b"],                // <leader>gb = git blame toggle (GitLens)
      "commands": ["gitlens.toggleFileBlame"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "B"],                // <leader>gB = git browse (open on remote - GitLens)
      "commands": ["gitlens.openFileOnRemote"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "d"],                // <leader>gd = git diff (show changes)
      "commands": ["git.openChange"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "l"],                // <leader>gl = git log (file history - GitLens)
      "commands": ["gitlens.showQuickFileHistory"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "L"],                // <leader>gL = git log (branch history - GitLens)
      "commands": ["gitlens.showQuickRepoHistory"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "g", "c"],                // <leader>gc = git commits (show commit details - GitLens)
      "commands": ["gitlens.showQuickCommitDetails"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ WINDOW MANAGEMENT - <leader>w* and <leader>-/| prefix                          │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim window/split operations
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "w", "d"],                // <leader>wd = close window (close split/editor)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.closeActiveEditor"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "w", "w"],                // <leader>ww = switch window (focus other group)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.focusNextGroup"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "w", "m"],                // <leader>wm = maximise window (toggle editor width)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.toggleEditorWidths"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "-"],                     // <leader>- = split window below
      "commands": ["workbench.action.splitEditorDown"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "|"],                     // <leader>| = split window right
      "commands": ["workbench.action.splitEditorRight"]
    },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ DIAGNOSTICS/QUICKFIX - <leader>x* prefix and [ ] navigation                    │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim diagnostics and error navigation. Bracket prefix mappings ([d, ]d) are
    // defined in keybindings.json because they use special key codes (oem_4, oem_6).
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "x", "x"],                // <leader>xx = diagnostics list (problems panel)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.problems.focus"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "x", "X"],                // <leader>xX = workspace diagnostics
      "commands": ["workbench.actions.view.problems"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "x", "l"],                // <leader>xl = location list (same as xx)
      "commands": ["workbench.action.problems.focus"]
    },
    // Note: [d, ]d, [e, ]e navigation defined in keybindings.json

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ UI TOGGLES - <leader>u* prefix                                                 │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
    //
    // LazyVim UI toggle operations. Line number toggling requires Settings Cycler extension.
    // Install: hoovercj.vscode-settings-cycler
    // Configure settings.cycle in this file (see bottom section).
    //

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "u", "w"],                // <leader>uw = toggle word wrap
      "commands": ["editor.action.toggleWordWrap"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "u", "z"],                // <leader>uz = toggle zen mode
      "commands": ["workbench.action.toggleZenMode"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "u", "r"],                // <leader>ur = redraw/clear search
      "commands": [":nohl"]
    },
    // Requires Settings Cycler extension - uncomment after installing:
    // {
    //   "before": ["<leader>", "u", "l"],              // <leader>ul = toggle line numbers
    //   "commands": ["settings.cycle.lineNumbers"]
    // },
    // {
    //   "before": ["<leader>", "u", "L"],              // <leader>uL = toggle relative numbers
    //   "commands": ["settings.cycle.relativeLineNumbers"]
    // },

    // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
    // │ QUIT - <leader>q* prefix                                                       │
    // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "q", "q"],                // <leader>qq = quit VSCode
      "commands": ["workbench.action.closeWindow"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "q", "a"],                // <leader>qa = quit all windows
      "commands": ["workbench.action.quit"]
    }
  ],

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // VISUAL MODE KEYBINDINGS - Selection operations
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  //
  // Visual mode enhancements for better selection handling and LazyVim parity
  //

  "vim.visualModeKeyBindings": [
    {
      "before": ["<"],                                 // < = indent left and reselect
      "after": ["<", "g", "v"]                         // The 'gv' reselects the previous visual selection
    },
    {
      "before": [">"],                                 // > = indent right and reselect
      "after": [">", "g", "v"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "/"],                     // <leader>/ = search selected text
      "commands": ["workbench.action.findInFiles"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "a"],                // <leader>ca = code action on selection
      "commands": ["editor.action.quickFix"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["<leader>", "c", "f"],                // <leader>cf = format selection
      "commands": ["editor.action.formatSelection"]
    },
    {
      "before": ["g", "c"],                            // gc = comment toggle
      "commands": ["editor.action.commentLine"]
    }
  ],

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // SETTINGS CYCLER CONFIGURATION (requires hoovercj.vscode-settings-cycler extension)
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  //
  // This provides LazyVim-style line number toggling with <leader>ul and <leader>uL.
  // Install the extension, then uncomment the keybindings above in the UI TOGGLES section.
  //
  // "settings.cycle": [
  //   {
  //     "id": "lineNumbers",
  //     "values": [
  //       { "editor.lineNumbers": "on" },              // Absolute line numbers
  //       { "editor.lineNumbers": "relative" },        // Relative line numbers
  //       { "editor.lineNumbers": "off" }              // No line numbers
  //     ]
  //   },
  //   {
  //     "id": "relativeLineNumbers",
  //     "values": [
  //       { "editor.lineNumbers": "relative" },        // Toggle between relative
  //       { "editor.lineNumbers": "on" }               // and absolute only
  //     ]
  //   }
  // ],

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // PERFORMANCE OPTIMISATION - CRITICAL for responsive typing
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  //
  // This runs the Vim extension in a dedicated thread to prevent typing lag and cursor
  // delays. This is ESSENTIAL for a good Vim experience in VSCode.
  //

  "extensions.experimental.affinity": {
    "vscodevim.vim": 1
  }

  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  // ADDITIONAL NOTES AND TROUBLESHOOTING
  // ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
  //
  // MACOS USERS: Enable key repeat for hjkl navigation
  // Run in terminal: defaults write com.microsoft.VSCode ApplePressAndHoldEnabled -bool false
  // Then restart VSCode.
  //
  // COMMON ISSUES:
  //
  // 1. Leader key not working:
  //    - Ensure "vim.leader": "<space>" is set
  //    - Verify bindings are in settings.json, NOT keybindings.json
  //    - Check no other extension is capturing space key
  //
  // 2. Typing lag or cursor delay:
  //    - Ensure extensions.experimental.affinity is set (see above)
  //    - Disable unused extensions
  //    - Check CPU usage in Task Manager
  //
  // 3. GitLens commands not working:
  //    - Install GitLens extension: eamodio.gitlens
  //    - Some commands are only available in git repositories
  //
  // 4. Bracket navigation ([d, ]d) not working:
  //    - These are defined in keybindings.json
  //    - Check your keybindings.json file is configured correctly
  //
  // 5. Line number toggle not working:
  //    - Install Settings Cycler: hoovercj.vscode-settings-cycler
  //    - Uncomment the settings.cycle section above
  //    - Uncomment the <leader>ul keybindings in UI TOGGLES section
  //
  // VALIDATION CHECKLIST:
  // □ Space key triggers leader (doesn't move cursor)
  // □ <leader>ff opens file picker
  // □ <leader>/ searches in files
  // □ gd navigates to definition
  // □ K shows hover
  // □ <leader>ca shows code actions
  // □ Shift+H/L switches buffers
  // □ No typing lag or cursor delays
  //
  // ══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
}

vim-vscode-keybindings.md

Changelog

[Migration Notice] - 2026-01

This gist is now synced with VimCode Repository 🚀

What Changed

• ✅ Gist = Quick Start version of VimCode (copy-paste ready)
• ✅ Repository = Full version with 50+ keybindings, docs, multi-editor support
• ✅ Synced configurations - gist matches repo's core config
• ✅ Easy upgrade path - start here, upgrade to full repo when ready

Why Upgrade to VimCode Repository?

• 50+ keybindings vs ~20 in this gist
• LazyVim conventions - complete implementation
• Multi-editor support - VS Code, Cursor, Windsurf
• Comprehensive docs - SETUP.md, KEYBINDINGS.md, TROUBLESHOOTING.md, TIPS_AND_TRICKS.md
• Active community - Issues, Discussions, regular updates
• Better organization - Logical file structure and documentation

Migration Path

1. ✅ Use this gist for quick 5-minute setup
2. 📖 Read VimCode docs
3. ⭐ Star the repository
4. 🔧 Upgrade to full config when you want more features

---

[2.0.0] - 2026-01-17 (Synced with VimCode v2.0.0)

This version syncs with VimCode Repository v2.0.0

Added

• Enhanced Git integration
  • Pull command: <leader>gp
  • Push command: <leader>gP
  • File history: <leader>gh
• New navigation shortcuts
  • Method boundaries: [m, ]m
  • Error navigation: [d, ]d
  • Definition jumping: ctrl+], ctrl+t
• Split management
  • Resize shortcuts: alt+h, alt+l
  • Maximize toggle: ctrl+w m
  • Equal sizing: <C-w>=
• Code folding commands
  • Fold: <leader>z
  • Unfold: <leader>Z
• Tab navigation
  • Previous/Next: alt+[, alt+]
• Workspace management
  • Close workspace: ctrl+shift+w
  • Copy file path: ctrl+k p
• Enhanced panel navigation
  • Consistent ctrl+j/k in all panels
  • Improved terminal focus controls

Changed

• Standardized sidebar toggling to use <leader>e
• Improved comments and documentation
• Reorganized keybindings into logical groups
• Synced with VimCode repository structure

Fixed

• Removed redundant keybindings
• Standardized leader key usage
• Improved context awareness for shortcuts

👉 For full changelog and latest updates, see VimCode CHANGELOG.md

---

[1.0.0] - 2025-01-22 (Gist-only release)

Added

• Enhanced Git integration
  • Pull command: <leader>g p
  • Push command: <leader>g P
  • File history: <leader>g h
• New navigation shortcuts
  • Method boundaries: [m, ]m
  • Error navigation: [d, ]d
  • Definition jumping: ctrl+], ctrl+t
• Split management
  • Resize shortcuts: alt+h, alt+l
  • Maximize toggle: ctrl+w m
  • Equal sizing: <C-w>=
• Code folding commands
  • Fold: <leader>z
  • Unfold: <leader>Z
• Tab navigation
  • Previous/Next: alt+[, alt+]
• Workspace management
  • Close workspace: ctrl+shift+w
  • Copy file path: ctrl+k p
• Enhanced panel navigation
  • Consistent ctrl+j/k in all panels
  • Improved terminal focus controls

Changed

• Standardized sidebar toggling to use <leader>e
• Improved comments and documentation
• Reorganized keybindings into logical groups

Fixed

• Removed redundant keybindings
• Standardized leader key usage
• Improved context awareness for shortcuts

[0.1.0] - Initial Release

Added

• Basic Vim keybindings
• File explorer integration
• Terminal shortcuts
• Basic Git commands
• Split navigation

---

Maintenance Notes

Gist Update Schedule:

• This gist is updated when VimCode repository has major releases
• For latest features and bug fixes, use the VimCode repository
• Gist focuses on core, stable features for quick setup

Want to Contribute?

• Report issues: VimCode Issues
• Suggest features: VimCode Discussions
• Submit PRs: VimCode Pull Requests

vimcode.md

VS Code + Vim Keybindings - Quick Start ⚡

🚀 This gist is synced with VimCode v2.0.0 - same configs, streamlined docs!

💡 Want more? The VimCode repository adds comprehensive documentation, troubleshooting guides, tips & tricks, and multi-editor support (Cursor, Windsurf).

⭐ Star VimCode on GitHub | 📖 Full Docs | 🔧 Advanced Setup

---

About This Gist

This is a copy-paste ready Vim configuration for VS Code featuring:

✅ Same configs as VimCode repository - keybindings.json and settings.json are identical
✅ 50+ LazyVim-inspired keybindings - Organized by prefix (<leader>f*, <leader>s*, etc.)
✅ Full LSP integration - Code navigation, formatting, refactoring
✅ Git operations - Powered by GitLens
✅ 5-minute setup - Copy, paste, reload, done!

Gist vs Repository - What's the Difference?

Feature	This Gist	VimCode Repository
Config files	✅ Same (synced)	✅ Same
Keybindings	✅ 50+ (identical)	✅ 50+ (identical)
Setup guide	⚡ Quick (5-min)	📚 Comprehensive
Documentation	📄 This README	📖 5 detailed guides
Troubleshooting	❌ Link to repo	✅ Full guide
Tips & tricks	❌ Link to repo	✅ Power user workflows
Multi-editor	💻 VS Code only	💻 VS Code + Cursor + Windsurf
Community	❌	✅ Issues, Discussions, PRs
Updates	📅 Major releases	🔄 Active development

TL;DR: Same powerful configs, choose based on how much documentation you want!

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5-Minute Setup

1. Install Required Extensions

# Essential (required)
code --install-extension vscodevim.vim
 
# Recommended (for full functionality)
code --install-extension eamodio.gitlens
code --install-extension ryuta46.multi-command

2. Copy Configuration Files

Copy settings.json and keybindings.json from this gist to your VS Code user directory:

macOS:

~/.config/Code/User/settings.json
~/.config/Code/User/keybindings.json

Linux:

~/.config/Code/User/settings.json
~/.config/Code/User/keybindings.json

Windows:

%APPDATA%\Code\User\settings.json
%APPDATA%\Code\User\keybindings.json

💡 Tip: If you already have custom configs, consider backing them up first!

3. Reload VS Code

Press Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + P → Type "Reload Window" → Enter

Done! 🎉 Try pressing <space> (leader key) to see available commands.

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Essential Keybindings

Leader key: <space>

🗂️ File Operations

Keybinding	Action
<leader>ff	Find files
<leader>fg	Find in files (grep)
<leader>fr	Recent files
<leader>fb	Find buffers
<leader>w	Save file
<leader>q	Close file

🔍 Search Operations

Keybinding	Action
<leader>sg	Search with grep
<leader>sw	Search word under cursor
<leader>/	Search in current file

⚙️ Code Actions

Keybinding	Action
gd	Go to definition
gr	Find references
<leader>ca	Code actions
<leader>rn	Rename symbol
<leader>cf	Format code

🌳 Git Operations

Keybinding	Action
<leader>gg	Open Git panel
<leader>gb	Git blame
<leader>gd	Git diff
<leader>gp	Git pull
<leader>gP	Git push

🪟 Window Management

Keybinding	Action
Ctrl+h/j/k/l	Navigate splits
<leader>wv	Vertical split
<leader>ws	Horizontal split
<leader>wc	Close window
<leader>wm	Maximize toggle

🎯 UI Toggles

Keybinding	Action
<leader>e	Toggle file explorer
<leader>uf	Toggle format on save
<leader>ul	Toggle line numbers

👉 Complete reference: VimCode Keybindings Guide (all 50+ shortcuts with categories)

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Quick Troubleshooting

Problem: Keybindings Don't Work

Solution:

1. Verify VSCodeVim extension is installed: code --list-extensions | grep vim
2. Check extension is enabled: Extensions panel → VSCodeVim → Make sure it's not disabled
3. Reload VS Code: Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + P → "Reload Window"

Still not working? See the full troubleshooting guide

Problem: Conflicts with Existing Keybindings

Solution:

1. Open Keyboard Shortcuts: Cmd/Ctrl + K, Cmd/Ctrl + S
2. Search for the conflicting keybinding
3. Right-click conflicting entry → "Remove Keybinding"

Need help resolving conflicts? Check the keybinding conflicts guide

Problem: Some Features Missing

Possible causes:

• GitLens extension not installed (for Git features)
• Multi-command extension not installed (for complex commands)

Solution: Install recommended extensions (see Setup step 1 above)

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Files in This Gist

File	Purpose	Synced with Repo?
README.md	This file - setup guide	✅ Optimized for quick start
settings.json	VS Code settings + Vim config	✅ Identical to repo
keybindings.json	All 50+ keyboard shortcuts	✅ Identical to repo
CHANGELOG.md	Version history	✅ Summarized from repo

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Why Upgrade to VimCode Repository?

You're Happy with This Gist If:

• ✅ 5-minute setup is all you need
• ✅ Configs are working great
• ✅ You don't need troubleshooting help
• ✅ You only use VS Code (not Cursor/Windsurf)

Upgrade to VimCode Repository If:

• 📚 You want comprehensive documentation (SETUP.md, KEYBINDINGS.md, etc.)
• 🐛 You need troubleshooting help (common issues, solutions)
• 💡 You want tips & tricks (power user workflows, best practices)
• 🎯 You use Cursor or Windsurf (multi-editor configurations)
• 👥 You want community support (issues, discussions)
• 🔄 You want latest updates (active development)
• 🤝 You want to contribute (PRs welcome!)

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Next Steps

1. Try It Out (5 min)

• Open a file and try <leader>ff to find files
• Navigate splits with Ctrl+h/j/k/l
• Try code actions with <leader>ca
• Use Git blame with <leader>gb

2. Learn More (15 min)

• Read VimCode README
• Browse complete keybindings
• Check tips & tricks

3. Get Involved (optional)

• ⭐ Star VimCode on GitHub
• 💬 Join Discussions
• 🐛 Report issues
• 🤝 Contribute

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Related Resources

VimCode Documentation

• 🏠 Main Repository - All features and docs
• 📘 Setup Guide - Detailed installation
• ⌨️ Keybindings Reference - Complete shortcuts
• 💡 Tips & Tricks - Power user workflows
• 🐛 Troubleshooting - Common issues
• 🎯 Editor Comparison - VS Code vs Cursor vs Windsurf

Getting Help

• 💬 Discussions - Ask questions, share tips
• 🐛 Issues - Report bugs, request features
• 🤝 Contributing - How to contribute

External Resources

• VSCodeVim Extension
• GitLens Extension
• LazyVim - The inspiration for VimCode

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Sync Status

Last synced with VimCode: v2.0.0 (2026-01-17)

What this means:

• ✅ Configs in this gist match VimCode repository v2.0.0
• ✅ You have all 50+ keybindings from the repo
• ✅ Future major releases will be synced here
• 📅 This gist updates every major release (v3.0.0, v4.0.0, etc.)

Want bleeding edge? Use the VimCode repository directly!

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Contributing

Found a bug? Want to suggest an improvement?

1. 🐛 Report bugs
2. 💡 Request features
3. ⌨️ Report keybinding conflicts
4. 🤝 Submit pull requests

All contributions go through the VimCode repository!

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License

MIT License - Free to use and modify

See LICENSE in the VimCode repository.

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Keep in Touch

• ⭐ Star VimCode: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode
• 💬 Discussions: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode/discussions
• 🐛 Issues: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode/issues
• 📝 Changelog: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode/blob/main/CHANGELOG.md

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⭐ If you find this useful, please star VimCode on GitHub!

🚀 Ready for the full experience? Visit VimCode Repository for comprehensive docs, troubleshooting, community support, and multi-editor configurations!

how can i config this in my vscode

how can i config this in my vscode

1. Press cmd + shift + p or ctrl + shift +p.
2. Write settings.
3. Scroll to personal settings ( JSON ).
4. Paste this config there.

hello it seems i can't have two keys after leader, only one works, how did you do?

hey some features are missing like ctrl+f, ctrl+s,

@nicolidin you have to install multi-command plugin and add the multi-command settings https://gist.github.com/wojukasz/d76ca3162debc66d4227b9dc6049789e#file-settings-json

hey some features are missing like ctrl+f, ctrl+s,

yeah, its not something I explored yet but I will try build upon this config over time

I changed the ', e' binding, to be able to input commas in terminal. Added !inputFocus to when:

 {
    // ", e": Toggles the sidebar's visibility when the text editor is not focused. <leader> + e
    "key": ", e",
    "command": "workbench.action.toggleSidebarVisibility",
    "when": "!editorTextFocus && !inputFocus"
  },

I changed the ', e' binding, to be able to input commas in terminal. Added !inputFocus to when:

 {
    // ", e": Toggles the sidebar's visibility when the text editor is not focused. <leader> + e
    "key": ", e",
    "command": "workbench.action.toggleSidebarVisibility",
    "when": "!editorTextFocus && !inputFocus"
  },

Nice! thanks for sharing!

hey some features are missing like ctrl+f, ctrl+s,

Hi!
I noticed the same when I first set up VimCode in VS Code. Some default shortcuts like Ctrl+F (search) or Ctrl+S (save) may not work if they are overridden by the Vim keybindings.

Here’s what I do:

• Open Keyboard Shortcuts (Ctrl+K, Ctrl+S)
• Search for the conflicting shortcut
• Either reassign it or remove the conflict
• Reload VS Code (Ctrl+Shift+P → Reload Window)

I also test all my keys after changes using this Free Keyboard Tester. It helps me quickly spot any missing shortcuts.

This keeps all essential shortcuts working while still enjoying Vim-style navigation!

Thanks, @Ibrahim-Azhar77. That's really good advice. I will take a look.

In this case, Ctrl + s works as a save file.

My take is to make this config Vim first and VS Code second, since I am coming from a Vim background. I am not planning to learn many VS Code shortcuts, but rather to adapt Vim to VS Code functionality.
More info in: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode

I am planning to keep this gist in sync with the repo, but mainly update keybindings and settings files to keep overhead minimal.

Thanks for the explanation. I like the Vim-first approach, as it feels more natural to me. Using Ctrl + S as save makes sense, especially for beginners. Keeping the gist in sync with the repo also sounds like a clean and practical idea.

thanks @Ibrahim-Azhar77 I am planning to refine as I go on and update, but if you find anything that is not working or you have suggestions for improvments please post in https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode/issues

Thanks for the update! I’ll keep an eye on it and post any issues or suggestions directly on this page: https://github.com/wojukasz/VimCode/issues. Keep up the great work!

  // ┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
  // │ BUFFER NAVIGATION - Shift+h/l (LazyVim: <S-h>, <S-l>)                              │
  // └────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
  //
  // Switch between open editor tabs using Shift+H (previous) and Shift+L (next).
  // Only active in Normal/Visual modes to avoid conflicts with text selection.
  // Alternative: Use [b and ]b (defined below) for the same functionality.
  //
  {
    "key": "shift+h",
    "command": "workbench.action.previousEditor",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert' && editorFocus"
  },
  {
    "key": "shift+l",
    "command": "workbench.action.nextEditor",
    "when": "vim.active && vim.mode != 'Insert' && editorFocus"
  },

I add editorFocus to buffer navigation when-expression to avoid tab switch when typing "L", "H" in copilot chat.

Brilliant @odezzshuuk , I encountered that last week just didn't got around to fixing it, thanks will try it out coming week and update accordingly.