How to Open Files in Linux Using the Terminal

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In Linux, mastering the command-line tools for file management is essential for efficient workflow. Here’s a guide on opening and managing files directly from the terminal.

Opening Text Files

  1. Using Nano:
  • Open a text file named example.txt with Nano:
    nano example.txt
  • Edit the file, save (Ctrl + O), and exit (Ctrl + X) Nano.
  1. Using Vim or Vi:
  • Open example.txt with Vim:
    vim example.txt
  • Navigate with arrow keys, edit (i for insert), and save and exit (Esc followed by :wq).

Viewing Files

  1. Using Less:
  • View example.txt with Less:
    less example.txt
  • Scroll with arrow keys and quit with q.

Executing Scripts and Programs

  1. Running Executables:
  • Execute scripts or programs directly. For example, if myscript.sh is in the current directory, run:
    ./myscript.sh
  • Replace myscript.sh with the actual script name.

Conclusion

Mastering file operations in the Linux terminal enhances productivity and efficiency. Whether you’re editing text files, viewing content, or executing scripts, these command-line tools offer flexibility and power.

Experiment with these commands to find the methods that best suit your workflow. With practice, navigating and managing files in Linux will become intuitive and seamless.