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Josh Bernhard , Karl Krueger, Derek Steer, Richard Kalehoff, and Juno Lee
The Unix shell is a powerful tool for developers of all sorts. In this lesson, you'll get a quick introduction to the very basics of using it on your own computer.

What's inside

Syllabus

The Unix shell is a powerful tool for developers of all sorts. In this lesson, you'll get a quick introduction to the very basics of using it on your own computer.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches basics of Unix shell, an indispensable tool for developers of all kinds
Taught by experienced instructors in the field
Provides a quick introduction to Unix shell, suitable for beginners

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Command Line Essentials with these activities:
Unix Shell Fundamentals Refresher
Strengthen your foundation! Review the core concepts and commands of the Unix shell, ensuring a solid understanding before diving into the course.
Show steps
  • Review online tutorials or documentation covering Unix shell basics.
  • Go through your notes or previous coursework related to the Unix shell.
Collaborative Unix Shell Exploration
Enhance your learning! Engage with fellow learners in a peer session, sharing knowledge, tips, and tricks for navigating the Unix shell.
Browse courses on Unix Shell
Show steps
  • Join or create a study group or online forum dedicated to Unix shell.
  • Actively participate in discussions, asking questions and sharing your experiences.
  • Collaborate with others on projects or challenges involving the Unix shell.
Seek Guidance from Experienced Unix Shell Developers
Accelerate your learning! Identify experienced Unix shell developers who can provide valuable insights, guidance, and support throughout your journey.
Browse courses on Unix
Show steps
  • Attend industry events or workshops where you can connect with potential mentors.
  • Reach out to Unix shell communities or forums and ask for recommendations.
  • Explore online platforms that connect mentors and mentees.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Execute Unix shell commands with ease
Boost your Unix skills! This activity will guide you in practicing essential Unix shell commands, solidifying your knowledge.
Browse courses on Unix Commands
Show steps
  • Review the essential Unix shell commands and their syntax.
  • Execute a variety of commands in a Unix shell environment.
  • Practice navigating the Unix file system using commands like cd, ls, and pwd.
  • Control processes and background tasks using commands like ps, kill, and bg.
Unix Shell Navigation and File Manipulation Exercises
Sharpen your skills! Engage in targeted practice exercises focused on navigating the Unix shell and manipulating files, reinforcing your understanding.
Browse courses on Unix
Show steps
  • Practice using commands like cd, ls, and pwd to navigate the Unix file system.
  • Utilize commands like touch, mkdir, and rm to create, modify, and delete files and directories.
  • Combine commands using pipelines and redirection to perform complex tasks.
Mastering Unix Shell Pipelines and Redirection
Enhance your Unix proficiency! This activity will provide you with guided tutorials, empowering you to master Unix shell pipelines and redirection techniques.
Browse courses on Unix
Show steps
  • Understand the concepts of Unix pipelines and how they can be used to combine commands.
  • Practice creating pipelines using commands like grep, sort, and wc to process data.
  • Explore redirection techniques to control the input and output of commands.
  • Utilize pipelines and redirection together to perform complex tasks efficiently.
  • Apply your knowledge by completing hands-on exercises and projects.
Unix Shell Project: Automating a Task
Apply your knowledge! Design and implement a Unix shell script that automates a repetitive task, demonstrating your proficiency in using the shell for practical applications.
Browse courses on Unix
Show steps
  • Identify a task that can be automated using a Unix shell script.
  • Design and develop a Unix shell script solution.
  • Test and refine your script to ensure it is efficient and effective.
  • Package and document your script for future use.
Unix Shell Scripting Showcase
Solidify your Unix skills! Create a Unix shell script that automates a task or solves a problem, demonstrating your understanding and creativity.
Browse courses on Unix
Show steps
  • Identify a task or problem that can be automated using a Unix shell script.
  • Design and implement a Unix shell script solution.
  • Test and refine your script to ensure it meets the requirements.
  • Document your script with clear and concise comments.
  • Share your script with others and seek feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Command Line Essentials will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Systems Administrator
As a Systems Administrator, you will be responsible for managing, maintaining, and securing computer systems. Strong knowledge of the command line is a must-have for those in this role, as the primary method of administering and configuring systems is through the command line. Familiarity with specific commands and scripts associated with enterprise systems like Unix is thus important, and this course may help to provide a solid foundation.
Software Engineer
As a Software Engineer, you will be primarily responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining software systems. This course can be a valuable resource for you, as it will introduce you to fundamental system administration concepts. Working as a Software Engineer often requires knowledge of the command line, as many software development tools are run through it. Familiarity with the Unix shell is particularly helpful in this respect, as it is a powerful tool for automating tasks and managing system resources.
DevOps Engineer
As a DevOps Engineer, you will be responsible for bridging the gap between development and operations teams. You will play a role in the entire application lifecycle, from development to deployment and maintenance. Familiarity with the command line is crucial for those in the DevOps field, as it is essential for automating tasks, provisioning infrastructure, and managing deployments. This course provides a solid foundation for these tasks by introducing you to the basics of the Unix shell, which is widely used in DevOps pipelines.
Data Analyst
As a Data Analyst, you will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data in order to provide insights and recommendations. This can often involve working with large datasets, which often requires the use of command-line tools and utilities for data manipulation and analysis. As Unix is a popular operating system for working with big data, familiarity with the command line is a key skill that can advance your career as a Data Analyst.
Cloud Engineer
As a Cloud Engineer, you will design, deploy, and manage cloud-based systems. Strong knowledge of the command line is a must-have for those in this role, as cloud platforms like AWS and Azure offer command-line interfaces for managing resources, services, and infrastructure. This course can be a valuable resource for you, as it will introduce you to the fundamental commands and concepts of the Unix shell, which is a popular choice for cloud environments.
Database Administrator
As a Database Administrator, you will be responsible for managing and maintaining databases. This can involve tasks such as creating and modifying databases, managing user access, and ensuring data integrity. Familiarity with the command line is a key skill for Database Administrators, as many database management systems use command-line interfaces. This course can provide you with a solid foundation in the Unix shell, which is a popular choice for database administration tasks.
Network Administrator
As a Network Administrator, you will be responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. This can involve tasks such as configuring routers and switches, managing network traffic, and troubleshooting network issues. Familiarity with the command line is crucial for those in this role, as many network management tools are run through the command line. This course can help you develop a strong foundation in the Unix shell, which is widely used in network administration.
Web Developer
As a Web Developer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining websites and web applications. Familiarity with the command line is beneficial for those in this role, as many web development tasks can be automated using command-line tools. For example, you may use the command line to install and manage web servers, configure databases, or deploy code. This course may help provide a basic understanding of the Unix shell, which is a common choice for web development environments.
IT Support Specialist
As an IT Support Specialist, you will be responsible for providing technical support to users. This can involve tasks such as troubleshooting hardware and software issues, installing and configuring software, and providing training. Familiarity with the command line is helpful in this role, as it can be used to automate tasks and quickly resolve common issues. This course can provide you with a basic introduction to the Unix shell, which can be a valuable tool for IT Support Specialists.
Computer Programmer
As a Computer Programmer, you will be responsible for writing, testing, and maintaining computer programs. Familiarity with the command line can be beneficial for those in this role, as it can be used to automate tasks and manage project resources. For example, you may use the command line to create and manage project documentation, track project progress, or communicate with team members. While this course may not be directly related to the core responsibilities of a Computer Programmer, it can provide you with a basic understanding of the Unix shell, which could be beneficial in certain situations.
IT Project Manager
As an IT Project Manager, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and closing IT projects. Familiarity with the command line may be helpful in this role, as it can be used to automate tasks and manage project resources. For example, you may use the command line to create and manage project documentation, track project progress, or communicate with team members. While this course may not be directly related to the core responsibilities of an IT Project Manager, it can provide you with a basic understanding of the Unix shell, which could be beneficial in certain situations.
IT Consultant
As an IT Consultant, you will be responsible for providing IT consulting services to clients. Familiarity with the command line may be helpful in this role, as it can be used to automate tasks and manage project resources. For example, you may use the command line to create and manage project documentation, track project progress, or communicate with team members. While this course may not be directly related to the core responsibilities of an IT Consultant, it can provide you with a basic understanding of the Unix shell, which could be beneficial in certain situations.
Technical Writer
As a Technical Writer, you will be responsible for creating and maintaining technical documentation. Familiarity with the command line may be helpful in this role, as it can be used to automate tasks and manage project resources. For example, you may use the command line to create and manage project documentation, track project progress, or communicate with team members. While this course may not be directly related to the core responsibilities of a Technical Writer, it can provide you with a basic understanding of the Unix shell, which could be beneficial in certain situations.
Cybersecurity Analyst
As a Cybersecurity Analyst, you will be responsible for identifying, preventing, and responding to cybersecurity threats. Familiarity with the command line is crucial for those in this role, as many cybersecurity tools and techniques rely on the command line. This course can provide you with a basic introduction to the Unix shell, which is a common choice for cybersecurity professionals.
Data Scientist
As a Data Scientist, you will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data in order to provide insights and recommendations. Familiarity with the command line is helpful for those in this role, as many data analysis tools and techniques rely on the command line. This course can provide you with a basic introduction to the Unix shell, which is a common choice for data scientists.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Command Line Essentials.
A comprehensive guide to the Linux command line and shell scripting, this book provides a solid foundation for understanding the basics of working with the Unix shell. It valuable reference for both beginners and experienced users.
This classic work provides a comprehensive overview of the Unix programming environment, including the shell and its commands. It valuable resource for understanding the historical context and design principles of the Unix shell.
This guide provides a deep dive into advanced Bash scripting techniques, covering topics such as I/O redirection, process control, and regular expressions. It valuable resource for users who want to extend their knowledge of the Unix shell.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Unix shell programming, covering the basics of the shell and its commands, as well as more advanced topics such as scripting and system administration. It good choice for users who want a broad overview of the Unix shell.
Provides a gentle introduction to Linux programming, including the basics of the shell and its commands. It good choice for users who are new to Linux and want to learn the basics of working with the Unix shell.
Provides a comprehensive and up-to-date introduction to the Linux command line. It good choice for users who want a thorough understanding of the Unix shell and its commands.
Provides a concise and practical introduction to the bash shell. It good choice for users who want to quickly learn the basics of the Unix shell.
This guide provides a very basic introduction to the bash shell. It good choice for users who are completely new to the Unix shell and want to learn the absolute basics.
Provides a comprehensive reference to the shell and its commands. It valuable resource for advanced users who need a detailed understanding of the Unix shell.
Provides a comprehensive reference to the sed and awk commands. It valuable resource for users who need to perform text processing tasks using the Unix shell.
This pocket reference provides a concise and practical introduction to the grep command. It good choice for users who need to quickly learn the basics of using grep to search for text in files.
This pocket reference provides a concise and practical introduction to the bash shell. It good choice for users who need to quickly learn the basics of using the Unix shell.

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