I remember one “how to exit vim” tutorial that explored key combinations that would exit vim regardless of what mode you’re currently in:
:q! works in command mode, but obviously not in insert mode. <ESC>:q! works in insert mode and incidentally also in command mode, but not in ex mode (extended command mode)! And so on, a longer and longer command is built that neutralises the current mode and whatever side effects that the key combo itself causes.
:q! works in command mode, but obviously not in insert mode. <ESC>:q! works in insert mode and incidentally also in command mode, but not in ex mode (extended command mode)! And so on, a longer and longer command is built that neutralises the current mode and whatever side effects that the key combo itself causes.