1. Follow this guide
2. If you wish to install other packages, such as vim, you'll need to setup an extra package repo for Yocto's package manager, opkg. See the guide here for details.
3. If you're like me and prefer vim, you'll need to create a .vimrc file in the home directory of the Edison and set it up with a few lines to make vim behave as expected:

    " fix arrow keys and backspace behavior
    set nocp
    set backspace=indent,eol,start
    " OPTIONAL    
    " enable syntax highlighting and line numbers by default
    syntax on
    set number
    set ruler
    " clearly show current mode at the bottom
    set showmode
    " auto-reload files changed outside vim
    set autoread
    " better multi-file support
    set hidden
    " replace annoying error sound with visual screen flash
    set visualbell

There's a great premade .vimrc file on github here, and a general vimrc configuration guide here.

The default linux distro for the Edison (Yocto) has the benefit and drawback of being incredibly basic and streamlined (it also has other weird caveats, such as only allocating 500mb to the root directory).

If you're not a fan, it is possible to install Debian on the Edison instead. [https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/loading-debian-ubilinux-on-the-edison](Guide here).