How do I make buffer jumps prefer the last-used window that already shows the target buffer?

Explanation

When jumps open the target buffer in an unexpected split, context switching gets expensive. :set switchbuf+=uselast changes that behavior so commands that honor switchbuf prefer the last-used window already showing the destination buffer. This is a subtle but high-impact improvement when you work with quickfix lists, tags, and multi-window refactors.

How it works

switchbuf controls where Vim opens or reuses buffers during jump-style commands.

• :set switchbuf+=uselast appends the uselast strategy
• With uselast, Vim prefers the most recently used window that already displays the buffer
• This reduces layout churn compared with opening new splits or choosing arbitrary existing windows

You can combine it with other values:

:set switchbuf=useopen,usetab,uselast

That sequence says: reuse an open window first, reuse an open tab if needed, and bias toward the last-used matching window.

Example

Suppose main.py is visible in two windows: one narrow diagnostics split and one main editing split. You jump from quickfix to a main.py entry.

Without uselast, Vim may pick the less convenient window. With uselast, it prefers the window you were actively using most recently, preserving editing flow.

Tips

• Use :set switchbuf? to inspect your active strategy
• Add this in filetype or project-local config if different projects need different jump behavior
• Pair with :help :cnext / tag jumps to make navigation feel consistent across workflows