I've come across a frequent opinion that serious backend developers, especially those working with Linux, must learn Vim or Neovim. Some say it's crucial for feeling comfortable in the terminal, SSHing into servers, and making quick edits without a mouse. But I'm curious, is there truth to this? Does relying on VS Code, even with remote extensions, limit our effectiveness in the long run? Are there advantages to learning Vim, or is it just an outdated expectation? I'd love to hear thoughts from those who've delved deep into backend, DevOps, or Linux-based work.
5 Answers
Personally, I think it really doesn’t matter what you use. Knowing the basics of text editors like Nano or even a little Vim can help, but it’s not essential for backend development. It’s more about how you approach your work and using the right tools for the job, not about sticking to some old standards that don't fit everyone.
Vim is just another text editor. Use whichever feels best for your productivity! It’s worth knowing how to use Vim for server edits, but there are simpler editors like Nano available too, which require no setup.
Honestly, you don't need to master Vim to be a great developer. Use the editor that makes you the most productive. Familiarizing yourself with a few basic commands in Vim can save time in the shell when you're doing backend work, but it's not a make-or-break skill.
For sure! Just being comfortable in your tool of choice is what actually matters.
VS Code with extensions does an excellent job for most needs. Sure, Vim is handy for SSH or terminal edits, but mastering it isn't necessary for being a legit developer. Use whatever makes you comfortable and efficient—no need to feel pressured to look cool with Vim.
Right! It’s all about speed and comfort, not about fitting into a certain image.
Learning Vim is definitely a useful skill because there'll be times when you need to edit text files on servers that only have Vim or Vi installed. While it isn't essential for actual software development, having some familiarity can really help in terminal situations.
Exactly! Knowing some basic Vim commands can make things easier, even though it might not be necessary for your everyday coding.
True, and it’s good to know how to insert and save files at the very least!
Exactly! Every developer has their own style, and what works for one might not work for another.