How do I switch to a specific buffer by number?

Explanation

The :b command followed by a buffer number switches directly to that buffer. Use :ls first to see buffer numbers.

How it works

• :b 3 switches to buffer number 3
• :b filename switches by partial filename match
• :sb 3 opens buffer 3 in a new split

Example

:ls           " Shows: 1 main.go, 2 utils.go, 3 test.go
:b 2          " Switch to utils.go
:b test       " Switch to test.go (partial match)

Tips

• Tab completion works with :b : type :b then press Tab
• :b with no argument switches to the alternate buffer
• :bd 3 deletes (unloads) buffer 3
• Buffer numbers do not change when buffers are deleted