Abstract

This tutorial will walk you through the basics of how to use the Unix command line.

About This Material

This is a Hands-on Tutorial from the GTN which is usable either for individual self-study, or as a teaching material in a classroom.

Questions this will address

• What is a command shell and why would I use one?
• How can I move around on my computer?
• How can I see what files and directories I have?
• How can I specify the location of a file or directory on my computer?
• How can I create, copy, and delete files and directories?
• How can I edit files?

Learning Objectives

• Explain how the shell relates to the keyboard, the screen, the operating system, and users' programs.
• Explain when and why command-line interfaces should be used instead of graphical interfaces.
• Explain the similarities and differences between a file and a directory.
• Translate an absolute path into a relative path and vice versa.
• Construct absolute and relative paths that identify specific files and directories.
• Use options and arguments to change the behaviour of a shell command.
• Demonstrate the use of tab completion and explain its advantages.
• Create a directory hierarchy that matches a given diagram.
• Create files in that hierarchy using an editor or by copying and renaming existing files.
• Delete, copy and move specified files and/or directories.