How do I show line numbers in Vim?

Explanation

The number option displays absolute line numbers in the left margin. This is one of the most commonly enabled settings.

How it works

• :set number (:set nu) shows line numbers
• :set nonumber (:set nonu) hides them
• :set number! toggles them

Example

  1 first line
  2 second line
  3 third line

Tips

• :set relativenumber shows numbers relative to the cursor
• Both can be combined: :set number relativenumber
• Put set number in your vimrc for permanent use
• :set numberwidth=4 controls the column width