QuickFixNotes

QuickFixNotes, also known as QFN, is an excellent Vim plugin designed to facilitate file annotation through quickfix functionality. The plugin's primary purpose is to tie comments to a specific line number, column number and source file without modifying the file. As a result, the plugin provides a simple and useful mechanism for tracking notes when reviewing text files, such as documents, book drafts, source code, and configuration files.

Additionally, QFN also pairs well with xxd as it can even annotate binary formats. This functionality makes it an ideal tool for inserting comments into files during reviews, where rewriting the reviewed file is impractical. The plugin maps two keys, < Plug > QuickFixNote and < Plug > QuickFixSave, which allow users to add an entry to the quickfix list and save it in the expected format.

One of the critical features of QuickFixNotes is its ability to add a comment for a specific line and column number to the quickfix list. This feature allows users to create useful and detailed comments that are specific to a file, line and column number. Furthermore, the plugin provides all its functionalities without requiring any external scripting dependencies.

QuickFixNotes has a straightforward installation process. Users only need to download the vimball, run the command "vim qfn.vba", execute the following ex command":so %", and they're all set. After installation, users can bind the < Plug > QuickFixNote and < Plug > QuickFixSave keys to their preferred key combinations.

QuickFixNotes is an excellent tool for anyone looking to annotate files without modifying them physically. The ":help qfn" command provides more information regarding the plugin.