How do I run a one-off macro without recording by executing keystrokes from an expression register?

Q: How do I run a one-off macro without recording by executing keystrokes from an expression register?

`@='A; ' ` Recorded macros are powerful, but sometimes you need a quick ephemeral sequence and do not want to occupy a register. `@=` lets you evaluate an expression and execute the resulting keystrokes immediately as a macro. This is a high-leverage tool for ad hoc edits, especially when combined with `repeat()` or string building in Vimscript expressions. ## How it works - `@=` enters expression-register execution mode for macros - `'A; '` returns a Normal-mode key sequence string - ` ` confirms and executes the produced sequence - In this example, `A; ` appends `;` at end of line and returns to Normal mode ## Example Given: ```text const x = 1 const y = 2 ``` On the first line, run: ```vim @='A; ' ``` Result: ```text const x = 1; const y = 2 ``` Then move down and repeat with `@@` to apply the same generated macro again. ## Tips - Build dynamic one-offs by concatenating pieces, for example `@='A' . ';' . ' ' ` - Use this for one-shot edits when recording (`qa...q`) would be overkill - If mappings interfere, include only raw Normal keys you intend to execute

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`@='A;'` Recorded macros are powerful, but sometimes you need a quick ephemeral sequence and do not want to occupy a register. `@=` lets you evaluate an expression and execute the resulting keystrokes immediately as a macro. This is a high-leverage tool for ad hoc edits, especially when combined with `repeat()` or string building in Vimscript expressions. ## How it works - `@=` enters expression-register execution mode for macros - `'A;'` returns a Normal-mode key sequence string - `` confirms and executes the produced sequence - In this example, `A;` appends `;` at end of line and returns to Normal mode ## Example Given: ```text const x = 1 const y = 2 ``` On the first line, run: ```vim @='A;' ``` Result: ```text const x = 1; const y = 2 ``` Then move down and repeat with `@@` to apply the same generated macro again. ## Tips - Build dynamic one-offs by concatenating pieces, for example `@='A' . ';' . ''` - Use this for one-shot edits when recording (`qa...q`) would be overkill - If mappings interfere, include only raw Normal keys you intend to execute

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