First thing to learn is that there is not one single "vim".
There are many "vi" clones - and "VIM" (vi improved) which this wiki is about can be compiled in many different ways - eg "huge" and "small".
Some linux distributions ship with a clone (nvi) or with a minimal version. Often its your task to install a "huge" version first.
If you need help try irc vim-irc-on-freenode
More details to be added here