How to save + close file when editing in bash?

Solution 1:

Esc will only throw you back into command mode in VI or Vim. To Save and quit press Shift + Z + Z, :wq, or :x in command mode. If you are opening the file in read only mode you will have to hit :q!.

Consider looking at this cheatsheet as well for more macros VI cheatsheet

Solution 2:

If you are new to Linux I would suggest using something other than vi. For instance, nano is fairly user-friendly, although much less powerful. Also, vim is a variant of vi that has some more features (like syntax highlighting) and is slightly easier to use.