Using PhpStorm IdeaVim, I can't use shift+arrow keys to select words

Question

I am using PhpStorm 7.1.2 with IdeaVim plugin.

When in Insert mode, I want to select words using Shift + ArrowKey. However, this IdeaVim plugin seems to be

Answer 1

May I suggest this might not be a good question?

An advantage of using vim is to reduce the amount of arm movement between the alpha-numeric keys and the arrows. Using shift+arrow defeats this very purpose.

A simple way to achieve word selection without reaching for the arrows:

1. Position the cursor at the beginning of the text you want to select
2. Press v to enter visual mode (this is equivelent to pressing the shift key)
3. Move the cursor with w one or more times to the end of the text to be selected. (this is equivenent to pressing the arrows)
4. Cut/copy as you wish

Answer 2

Starting with IdeaVim 0.52, VIM-437 has been fixed and you can use the 'keymodel' option to enable special behaviour with shifted keys and selections. If you add :set keymodel^=startsel to your ~/.ideavimrc, then shift + cursor keys will change you to Visual mode (or Select mode if 'selectmode' contains key). Unfortunately, there currently seems to be a bug that means this only works from Normal mode, and doesn't work in Insert mode. See VIM-1756.

There are more options for 'keymodel' that might be useful. Check out the docs.