How to Use the Command 'vifm' (with examples)

VI File Manager, or vifm, is a text-based user interface (TUI) file manager that offers a powerful and efficient way to navigate the filesystem in a manner reminiscent of the ‘vi’ text editor. It is designed for users who are already familiar with vi or vim and is a great tool for performing file management tasks directly from the terminal. vifm supports a multitude of features, including multiple panes, bookmarking, color schemes, and advanced file operations, making it a versatile addition to the workflow of both terminal enthusiasts and those seeking to increase productivity in the command-line environment.

Use case 1: Open the Current Directory

Code:

vifm .

Motivation:

Opening the current directory using vifm allows users to quickly and efficiently navigate and manage files and directories directly from the terminal without needing to open a separate GUI file manager. If you’re already working within a specific directory and need to organize files, move them around, or preview content, using vifm can save time and resources by harnessing the terminal where you’re already active. This command is particularly useful for developers or system administrators who spend much of their time within terminal environments and wish to leverage the intuitive, command-centric interface of vifm.

Explanation:

• vifm: This is the command to launch the VI File Manager.
• .: The dot (.) refers to the current working directory. By typing . after vifm, you instruct the program to open the file manager starting at the directory you are currently located in, allowing you immediate access to all files and sub-directories contained therein.

Example Output:

Upon executing the command, vifm will open its interface in the terminal window, showcasing the current directory’s contents in a structured list format. Depending on your configuration, you might see file names, sizes, modification dates, and more, allowing for easy interaction via keyboard shortcuts typical of vi such as navigating using h, j, k, l, opening files, moving them, or changing directories.

Use case 2: Open Specified Directories on Left or Right Plane

Code:

vifm path/to/directory1 path/to/directory2

Motivation:

This use case of vifm becomes particularly valuable when you need to work with multiple directories simultaneously. By specifying two or more directories, you can split your vifm interface into multiple panes, each displaying a different directory. This can enhance productivity by allowing for direct comparison, synchronization, or movement of files between directories without having to switch back and forth manually. It’s especially useful for tasks involving a lot of file transfers, such as organizing project folders, backing up data, or when the user needs to compile files from various locations into a single directory.

Explanation:

• vifm: Again, this is the command to launch the VI File Manager.
• path/to/directory1: The path specified as directory1 is the first directory you want vifm to display. This directory will typically open on the left plane of the vifm TUI.
• path/to/directory2: The second path, referred to as directory2, is where you specify the second directory to be opened. This directory will generally appear on the right pane. Additional directories can be added to accommodate more complex file management requirements, provided your terminal window has sufficient width to display extra panes properly.

Example Output:

On executing this command, vifm opens and the terminal display is split into two panes. Each pane represents one of the specified directories, with the contents of directory1 and directory2 visible for interaction. Users can switch between panes using keyboard shortcuts within vifm, accessing the one they need to focus on actively. This split-view design facilitates operations like copy and paste between directories without excessive navigation.

Conclusion:

VI File Manager (vifm) provides an efficient and feature-rich solution for managing files directly from the terminal. Whether you want to quickly access the current directory for file operations or need to manipulate files between multiple directories, vifm enhances productivity by combining the power of vi with robust file management capabilities. Understanding these use cases and commands can greatly benefit users who wish to harness terminal-based tools for increased efficiency and seamless integration with existing workflows.