VimHardMode: The Ultimate Neovim Training Configuration

🎯 Purpose

Welcome to VimHardMode - a Neovim configuration designed to transform you into a Vim ninja by enforcing strict keyboard-only workflows and best practices. This configuration intentionally disables common "crutches" to help you master Vim's powerful native features.

🚫 Key Features

Disabled Distractions

• No Arrow Keys: Force yourself to use hjkl for navigation
• No Mouse Support: Pure keyboard-driven workflow
• No Function Keys: Learn the proper Vim commands instead
• No Numpad: Embrace the home row
• No Common Shortcuts: Say goodbye to Ctrl+C, Ctrl+V, Ctrl+Z

Strict File Management

• Unix-Style Line Endings: Enforced on save
• No Backup Files: Clean workspace, no .swp or backup files
• No Auto-formatting: Full control over your code formatting

Enhanced Editing Experience

• Auto Whitespace Cleanup: Removes trailing whitespace on save
• Smart Line Numbers: Relative in normal mode, absolute in insert mode
• No Auto-commenting: Prevents automatic comment continuation
• Disabled Diagnostics: Focus on coding without distractions

⚙️ Configuration Structure

lua/config/
├── autocmds.lua    # Automatic commands and behaviors
├── keymaps.lua     # Key mapping configurations
├── options.lua     # General Neovim options
└── plugins/
    └── plugins.lua # Plugin-specific settings

🛠️ Installation

1. Back up your existing Neovim configuration:

mv ~/.config/nvim ~/.config/nvim.backup

2. Clone this repository:

git clone https://github.com/yourusername/vim-hardmode.git ~/.config/nvim

3. Start Neovim and let it install dependencies:

nvim

💡 Philosophy

This configuration follows the "hard way is the right way" philosophy. By removing common shortcuts and comfort features, it forces users to:

• Master Vim's native movement commands
• Learn efficient text manipulation
• Develop muscle memory for powerful Vim operations
• Break away from inefficient editing habits

🤔 Why So Strict?

1. Muscle Memory Development: Without fallback options, you're forced to learn the efficient way
2. Speed Optimization: Keyboard-only workflow is faster once mastered
3. Cross-Platform Consistency: These skills work everywhere Vim is installed
4. Better Understanding: Learning the "Vim way" helps you understand its philosophy

📝 Notes

• This configuration is intentionally challenging for beginners
• Expect a learning curve of 1-2 weeks
• Consider practicing with vimtutor before using this configuration
• Keep a cheat sheet handy for common Vim commands

⚠️ Warning

This configuration intentionally disables many familiar features. It's designed for learning and may not be suitable for production environments without modifications.

🤝 Contributing

Feel free to submit pull requests or suggest improvements! Let's make the path to Vim mastery even better together.