nvim/Q/How can I quickly collapse and expand a block in nvim?

• How can I quickly collapse and expand a block in nvim?

  • Answer

    • AI/Response
      • Use nvim's built-in folding commands. The fastest way is za to toggle a fold open/closed under the cursor.

      • Core fold toggle commands

        • Key	Action
          za	Toggle fold under cursor (open if closed, close if open)
          zo	Open fold under cursor
          zc	Close fold under cursor
          zO	Open fold and all nested folds recursively
          zC	Close fold and all nested folds recursively
          zR	Open all folds in the buffer
          zM	Close all folds in the buffer

      • Fold methods

        • Folding must be configured to work. Set a foldmethod in your config or per-buffer:
          • vim

            set foldmethod=indent   " fold by indentation (good for Python, LFM)
            set foldmethod=syntax   " fold by syntax (language-aware)
            set foldmethod=marker   " fold between {{{ and }}} markers
            set foldmethod=expr     " custom expression (used by tree-sitter plugins)

        • For Logseq Flavored Markdown (indented bullets), indent is the most practical built-in option.

      • With tree-sitter (recommended for modern configs)

        • If you use nvim-treesitter, enable expression-based folding:
          • lua

            vim.opt.foldmethod = "expr"
            vim.opt.foldexpr = "nvim_treesitter#foldexpr()"
            vim.opt.foldenable = false  -- start with all folds open

      • With nvim-ufo (enhanced folding plugin)

        • nvim-ufo provides a more polished fold experience with virtual text showing the number of folded lines. It remaps zR / zM and supports LSP + tree-sitter providers.

      • Quick tip: disable folding on open

        • By default nvim may fold everything when you open a file. To start with all folds open:
          • vim

            set nofoldenable

          • or in Lua: vim.opt.foldenable = false

      • Sources

        • Neovim folding documentation
        • nvim-treesitter folding
        • nvim-ufo plugin