How do I insert the unnamed register literally in Insert mode without auto-indent side effects?

Explanation

In Insert mode, plain <C-r>{register} inserts register content but may reindent or auto-format depending on context. <C-r><C-r>{register} inserts the same text literally, which is safer when you need exact whitespace, punctuation, or code snippets preserved. This is a strong trick for advanced editing in indentation-sensitive files.

How it works

• First <C-r> enters Insert-mode register paste
• Second <C-r> switches to literal insertion mode
• " selects the unnamed register

Literal insertion bypasses formatting side effects that can happen with normal Insert-mode register paste.

Example

Assume the unnamed register contains this exact text (including leading spaces):

    if (ready) {
        run_job();
    }

At an indented cursor position, use:

<C-r><C-r>"

Vim inserts the block as-is, preserving spacing instead of reflowing indentation.

Tips

• Use <C-r><C-r>0 to insert the yank register literally
• Use <C-r><C-r>a for a named register you keep snippets in
• If you do want Vim to adapt indentation to surrounding code, use the single-<C-r> form instead