How do I select all text inside square brackets?

Explanation

The vi[ command selects the text inside square brackets without including the brackets themselves. It works from any position inside the brackets.

How it works

• v enters visual mode
• i[ is the "inner square brackets" text object
• Selects everything between [ and ]
• Handles nested brackets correctly

Example

array[index + offset]

With the cursor inside the brackets, vi[ selects index + offset.

Tips

• va[ includes the brackets in the selection
• di[ deletes inside brackets
• ci[ changes inside brackets
• vi] is a synonym for vi[
• Nest with other text objects: select inside nested brackets