/intro-to-command-line

Unix Command Line Basics; materials originally created by Pamela Fox for GDI SF and by GDI ATX, modified by GDI Chicago

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GDI: Unix Command Line Basics

Slides are built using the Yeoman Reveal generator template. See the repo for instructions on making modifications to the slides.

Slides and materials are hosted here.

Course Description

Learn what to do (and what not to do) when it comes to the command line in this brief, but informative, evening workshop!

This course requires a Linux or Mac computer. If you have a Windows computer you will need to install Git Tools for Windows so that Unix commands are available.

Together, we'll gain new knowledge and skills while we squash the mysteries of the command line!

The command line is a powerful yet oft avoided tool for beginning developers. If you often find yourself Googling how to use the terminal, or what strange commands mean, then this course might be for you!

Specifically, this course will cover basics of directory and file traversal, finding and searching for files and content, and using many of the powerful tools that come along with most Unix Shells. If we're being totally honest, this is an intro to Unix, but it's from the angle of 'getting things done' rather than technical depth or purity.

This is an introductory-level course that gives a broad, basic overview of commonly use commands in Unix. If you have never worked with the command line, or you have limited experience with the command line, this class is for you.

You'll need a Unix compatible system at your disposal, which means a Mac or Linux laptop. You cannot use a Windows laptop for this course. We are not planning on offering a Windows version of this course in the immediate future. Not because we don't love you, or because Windows isn't important, but because we don't have adequate materials to teach an equivalent course to Windows users.

Technical requirements:

  • A Mac or Linux laptop
  • Windows laptops will require the installation of Git Tools for Windows, which installs Unix commands on your Windows laptop.
  • Alternatively, a Unix environment can be provided for all students to ssh into.
  • Administrator-level access (if you're using a work computer, ask your IT department if you have Admin-level access)

Prerequisites:

  • None. This is a beginner-level course.