How do I create a macro that uses an incrementing counter?

Explanation

By combining a Vimscript variable with a macro, you can create sequences with incrementing numbers. The variable increments each time the macro runs.

How it works

1. Initialize: :let i = 1
2. Record macro: qa
3. Insert the counter: i<C-r>=i<CR><Esc>
4. Increment: :let i += 1<CR>
5. Stop: q

Example

Create numbered items:

:let i = 1
qaI<C-r>=i<CR>. <Esc>:let i += 1<CR>jq

Running @a on each line produces:

1. first item
2. second item
3. third item

Tips

• The expression register <C-r>= evaluates i during insert
• :let i += 1 increments after each use
• This is more flexible than g<C-a> for complex numbering
• Can use any expression: :let i = char2nr('A') for letter sequences