How do I store the current file path in a named Vim register?

Explanation

Named registers are not only for yanked text. You can store computed strings in them and paste later in Normal, Insert, or command-line mode. A practical use is saving the current file path into a register so you can quickly inject it into commit messages, logs, shell commands, or template text without retyping.

How it works

• :let assigns a value in Vimscript
• @a targets register a
• expand('%:p') returns the current buffer's absolute file path

After running this once, you can paste the path with "ap in Normal mode or <C-r>a in Insert mode. This keeps your unnamed register untouched, so regular yank/paste flow stays clean.

Example

If the current buffer is:

/home/finn/work/vimtricks/internal/server/handlers.go

Run:

:let @a = expand('%:p')

Now insert the path anywhere with:

<C-r>a

Tips

• Use %:t instead of %:p if you only want the filename
• Use another register (for example @z) to avoid clashing with your macro register
• Combine with fnameescape() when you need a filename-safe form for Vim commands