How do I paste the current filename into the buffer?

Explanation

The % register in Vim always contains the name of the current file. You can paste it into your buffer with "%p in normal mode, or insert it while typing with <C-r>% in insert mode. This is invaluable for writing headers, comments, or log statements that reference the current filename.

How it works

• " tells Vim you're about to specify a register
• % is the special read-only register that holds the current file's path (as it was opened or as shown in the status line)
• p pastes the register contents after the cursor

The % register reflects how the file was opened. If you ran vim src/app.js, it contains src/app.js. If you used an absolute path, it contains the absolute path.

Example

You're editing src/utils/helpers.py and want to add a module docstring:

# File: |

In insert mode, press <C-r>% to insert the filename:

# File: src/utils/helpers.py

Or in normal mode with the cursor at the end of File: , press "%p:

# File: src/utils/helpers.py

Tips

• Use <C-r>% in insert mode to insert the filename without leaving insert mode
• The # register contains the alternate file (the previously edited file) — paste it with "#p
• Use :echo expand('%:t') to see just the filename without the path, or expand('%:p') for the full absolute path
• Insert the tail (filename only) in insert mode with <C-r>=expand('%:t')<CR>
• Insert the directory only with <C-r>=expand('%:h')<CR>
• The %:e modifier gives the file extension, %:r gives the path without extension
• Use 1<C-g> to display the full path in the status line, or :echo @% to echo the register contents