title: How do I switch between command and insert mode in Vim?
body: <p>I just started using Vim as an IDE. I was using it as a test editor for a while now, so I didn't have to go to command mode very often. But, since I program in Java, I have to go to command mode to make the file, compile/run it... etc. </p>
  
  <p>The problem is: I need a good way to switch between the two modes. </p>
  
  <p>I looked online and it says that the <code>&lt;Esc&gt;</code> key is supposed to do that, but that doesn't work for me (maybe it's not for gVim? I don't know why.)</p>
  
  <p>I have to press <kbd>CTRL</kbd><kbd>O</kbd> every time to go to command mode; the escape key works from that mode... it brings me back to insert mode. But is there a better, or easier, way of switching between command mode and insert mode?</p>