Replace Mode

R — overwrite as you type. r{c} — overwrite one character.

Keys: R, r

R enters replace mode: each typed key overwrites instead of inserting. r{c} overwrites a single character without entering replace mode.

Replace mode

Insert mode pushes characters around: typing in the middle of a word grows the word. Replace mode is different — each typed character overwrites the one under the cursor, then advances. Typing 5 characters in replace mode replaces 5 existing characters.

Replace one char with x (stays in normal mode)

Key	Note
`r`
`x`

Enter replace mode (continuous overwrite)

Key	Note
`R`

r — replace one character

R — replace mode

See also: Replace a Character, The Modes