How do I record a macro directly into the system clipboard register?

Explanation

You can record macros into any register, including the system clipboard (+). This allows you to record a keystroke sequence and immediately have it available for pasting into other applications, documentation, or sharing with colleagues.

How it works

• q+ — start recording a macro into the + (system clipboard) register
• Type your keystrokes
• q — stop recording
• The recorded keystrokes are now in the system clipboard

Example

" Record a macro to the clipboard
q+dwwP~q

" The clipboard now contains: dwwP~
" You can paste this into documentation or another Vim instance

Alternatively, record normally then copy:
qa...q
:let @+ = @a

Tips

• Use "* register instead of "+ on some systems (X11 primary selection)
• Record to a named register first, then copy: :let @+ = @a
• Import a macro from clipboard: :let @a = @+ then @a to execute
• This is great for sharing exact keystroke sequences with team members