How do I access and reuse the last search pattern?

Explanation

The / register contains the most recent search pattern. You can reference it in substitutions, macros, or paste it into the buffer.

How it works

• "/ stores the last search pattern
• <C-r>/ in insert mode inserts the pattern
• :s//replacement/ reuses it (empty search = last pattern)
• @/ evaluates it as a command (rarely useful)

Example

After searching /function, the / register contains function. You can use it in:

:%s//method/g    " Replaces using last search pattern

Tips

• This is why :%s//new/g works after a search
• :let @/ = 'pattern' sets the search pattern programmatically
• :let @/ = '' clears the current search highlighting
• The register updates with every /, ?, *, # search