How do I maximize a window to full height or make all windows equal size?

Explanation

When working with multiple splits, you often want to focus on one window by making it as large as possible, then restore equal sizing when you're done. <C-w>_ maximizes the current window's height, and <C-w>= resets all windows to equal dimensions.

How it works

• <C-w>_ — maximize the current window's height (takes up all available vertical space, other windows shrink to 1 line)
• <C-w>= — equalize the height and width of all windows
• <C-w>| — maximize the current window's width (for vertical splits)

You can also use a count: 10<C-w>_ sets the current window to exactly 10 lines tall.

Example

You have three horizontal splits open. You want to focus on the middle one:

<C-w>_       " middle window expands, top and bottom shrink to 1 line each

When done reviewing, restore all windows:

<C-w>=       " all three windows return to roughly equal height

Tips

• Combine <C-w>_ and <C-w>| to maximize both dimensions at once
• <C-w>o (:only) closes all other windows if you want truly full-screen — but this is destructive
• Use :resize +5 or :resize -5 for fine-grained height adjustments
• Map <leader>z to <C-w>_<C-w>| for a quick "zoom" toggle in your vimrc