Bash scripting is primarily used in Linux-based operating systems, while a function is a block of code in programming used to enhance code organization and facilitate repetitive use.
One of the main uses of a Bash function is to simplify complex scripts into smaller, manageable parts. This practice makes your code readable and maintained over time.
If you are wondering how to run a Bash script from a function, this post will enhance your understanding of Bash scripting.
How Do I Run a Bash Script From a Function?
To understand how the Bash script can be run from a function, here are a few examples.
Step 1: Create Your Bash Script
First, you need to create a Bash script (i.e. func_script.sh) that will be called or run from a Bash function:
nano func_script.sh
Write your Bash script something like:
#!/bin/bash
read -p "Please enter your name: " user_name
echo "Hello, $user_name! Welcome to the Unixhint."
Save this newly created Bash file using Ctrl+S and close the file.
Step 2: Create a Function Script
Use any text editor to create a simple script file for your Bash function:
nano bash_func.sh
This command will open a new blank page where you can type your Bash script for the function.
In this example, we will define a simple function and call the script, created in the first step, such as “func_script.sh”:
#!/bin/bash
# Define function
function bash_func {
./func_script.sh
}
# Call the function
bash_func
Save the “bash_func.sh” file and use the Ctrl+X to go back to the main terminal.
Additionally, if you want to call the bash script from other locations, you can use the following script.
First, check the absolute path of your bash script. For example, use the command “realpath” followed by “func_script.sh” to view the path:
realpath func_script.sh
After copying the absolute path of your Bash script, call it in the following manner:
#!/bin/bash
Path="/home/ubuntu/func_script.sh"
# Define function
function bash_func {
"$Path"
}
# Call the function
bash_func
After saving the changes in the Bash file, go back to the terminal.
Step 3: Execute the Bash Script
With “chmod +x”, you can allow the executable permissions to your script file:
chmod +x func_script.sh
Once you have made the Bash script executable, you can test the file by calling it in the following way:
./func_script.sh
If you are prompted to enter your name and then see the greeting message, it means that “func_script.sh” has run correctly.
How to Run a Bash Script From a Function?
Follow the provided steps to understand how to execute a Bash script from within a function.
Step 1: Execute the Bash Function
Utilize the “chmod” command to ensure that your main function script has execute permissions:
chmod +x bash_func.sh
Step 2: Run the Bash Function
Next, run the Bash function from your terminal using one of the following methods:
1: Execute the script from the current directory:
./bash_func.sh
2: Run the script with the “bash” command:
bash bash_func.sh
3: Utilize the “source” command to run the bash script:
source bash_func.sh
4: Use the absolute path to execute the script:
/home/ubuntu/bash_func.sh
By following the above methods, you can easily execute your Bash scripts.
FAQs
1. Can I run a Bash script from a Bash function?
Yes, you can run a bash script from Bash a function.
2. How can I run a Bash script from a Bash function?
You can define your Bash script and call it from function. You can utilize one of the methods to run a Bash script from a function:
- ./bash_func.sh
- bash bash_func.sh
- source bash_func.sh
- /home/ubuntu/bash_func.sh
Conclusion
It is simple and easy to run a Bash script from a function. After creating your script file, you can call it within a Bash function. You can utilize one of the methods to run a Bash script from a function: ./bash_func.sh, bash bash_func.sh, source bash_func.sh, or /home/ubuntu/bash_func.sh.
This guide demonstrated how one can run a Bash script from within a function.
