How do I open a persistent file explorer sidebar using Vim's built-in netrw?

Explanation

:Lexplore opens Vim's built-in netrw file explorer as a persistent sidebar anchored to the left of the screen. Unlike :Explore which replaces the current buffer, :Lexplore keeps the file tree visible as you open and navigate files — no plugins needed.

How it works

• :Lexplore — open (or toggle) a left-side netrw window
• :Lexplore {dir} — open the explorer starting in a specific directory
• :Rexplore — return focus to the explorer from an open file
• Pressing <CR> on a file opens it in the adjacent editing window while the sidebar stays open
• Running :Lexplore again closes the sidebar (toggle behavior)

Example

:Lexplore

A narrow file tree opens on the left. Navigate with j/k, enter directories with <CR>, go up with -, and open files. The sidebar persists across file changes.

Tips

• Control the sidebar width: let g:netrw_winsize = 25 in your vimrc (percentage of screen)
• Switch to tree view: let g:netrw_liststyle = 3 for an indented directory tree
• Toggle hidden files with gh inside netrw
• :Lexplore stores the window so :Rexplore can always return you to it
• For a right-side panel, use :Rexplore (right explore) or set g:netrw_altv = 1