Want to execute commands faster in a Linux terminal? We will tell you some tricks and tips to make the execution of commands faster in a Linux terminal.
Linux terminal helps you in the execution of tasks. It provides access to the system and you can efficiently instruct your computer on what to do. We will discuss some Linux terminal tricks and tips to get the work done easily and effectively.
This blog post will cover:
- Seven Linux Terminal Tricks and Tips
- Using Shortcuts for Navigation
- Auto-Completion Feature
- Running Previously Executed Commands
- Using CLI Help Feature
- Unfreeze the Terminal
- Killing a Command
- Terminal Multiplexer Feature
- Bonus Tip
Let’s start the blog post!
Seven Linux Terminal Tricks and Tips
There are certain Linux terminal tricks and tips that help you elevate the working experience. For instance, some shortcuts and terminal commands are not only confined to beginners. Some experienced users may also find these commands as new.
Let’s visit some commands to get a detailed view.
1. Using Shortcuts for Navigation
This helps you move freely without any need for the cursor. Just remember the below-mentioned shortcut keys to avoid using the cursor in the Linux terminal:
- Use Ctrl + F to move a single word forward and Ctrl + B to move one word backward.
- Navigate to the top of the command line using Ctrl + A and to the end of the command line using Ctrl + E.
- If you want to delete a single word forward use Ctrl + D and for backward use Ctrl + W.
2. Auto Completion Feature
This feature is quite easy and saves you time and effort. This trick in the Linux terminal uses the tab option to complete the command. All you need is to type the file, command, or path and press the tab. If the options are available, complete the command. Otherwise, it provides a list of commands that match with the entered command.
3. Running Previously Executed Commands
At times you need to fetch the old commands. Therefore, the Linux terminal keeps the record of previously executed commands. If you want to access any previous command on the Linux terminal, you can easily do so.
Just run the history command to view what you previously searched. The entire search history will appear helping you to reuse the command you searched for.
4. Using CLI Help Feature
The Linux terminal provides a comprehensive guide to its users. This guide helps you understand the details regarding all the commands. Just type the help Command name to view all the details regarding a certain command.
For example, use help cd to learn more about the change directory command. If in need of comprehensive references then use man.
5. Unfreeze the Terminal
If you are habitual of pressing Ctrl + S to save then it freezes the terminal in Linux. For especially beginners, it can create a problem and chaos as well. To solve this issue, there is a trick. Just press Ctrl + Q.
This saves you from closing the Linux terminal window. Just use this trick to return back to work.
6. Killing a Command
This trick is simple and very helpful. If the command is currently running and you want to terminate it. Then, press Ctrl + C. This will eventually stop the command on the Linux terminal in a go.
7. Terminal Multiplexer Feature
This trick in Linux allows you to run virtual sessions when using the Linux terminal. This keeps the virtual sessions in the same terminal and allows you to switch between the sessions.
A popular Linux muktiplexer is Tmux. It increases productivity and is easy to install and work with.
Bonus Tip: Command Line Aliases
Alias commands are best when you want to avoid writing long commands. This makes your work simpler and easier. Make long commands shorter using an alias in the Linux terminal.
This sums up the discussion on some Linux terminal tricks and tips to get things done easily.
Conclusion
So now you have a good idea of some tricks and tips in Linux terminal. Some major tips are auto-completion, unfreezing the terminal, CLI help, navigation shortcuts, etc. In this article, we discussed some tricks and tips for Linux terminals that make our work easier.
