> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dofy.gitbook.io/learn-vim/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dofy.gitbook.io/learn-vim/en/chapter06.md).

# Chapter 6: Visual Block Editing

Visual Block mode selects a rectangle and edits the same column across several lines. For example, turning plain lines into array items requires adding quotes and commas to every line.

> Search for `/^apple$` in the block below and place the cursor on its `a`. Then press `Ctrl-v 4j $ A ', Esc`. Spaces only separate the steps; do not type them.

```javascript
var myArray = [
apple
banana
cherry
durian
elderberry
];
```

Here is what happened: `Ctrl-v` entered Visual Block mode, `4j` selected five lines, `$` extended each selection to line end, and `A` appended text at the right edge. While typing `',`, only the first line changed visibly; pressing `Esc` applied the edit to every selected line.

> Search for `/^apple$` again and use `Ctrl-v 4j I ' Esc` to insert a quote at the start of all five lines. Each item should now look like `'apple',`. If the selection or text is wrong, one `u` undoes the entire block edit.

*Note: `I` and `A` are the most useful block-edit commands. Ordinary `i` and `a` affect only the cursor position. With uneven line lengths, inspect the selection before changing it.*

Block editing fits regular column changes. When each line needs the same multi-step sequence, a macro is usually a better tool.

Next, learn about [macros in Vim](/learn-vim/en/chapter07.md).