The visual application you open to type text-based instructions to your computer instead of clicking icons.

The Terminal Window

The invisible software that acts as a translator, taking the words you type and telling the computer's brain what to do.

The Shell Program

A small symbol, like a dollar sign or a bracket, that indicates the computer is ready for your next instruction.

The Command Prompt

Using a short command to see a list of every file and folder stored in your current location.

Listing Folder Contents

An instruction that prints out the full 'path' or address of where you are currently working in the computer.

Seeing Your Location

A way to jump from one folder to another using only text commands.

Navigating Between Folders

Making a brand new digital container to keep your work organized without using a mouse.

Creating New Folders

A quick shortcut to create an empty document instantly just by giving it a name.

Making New Files

Creating an identical twin of an existing file and placing it in a new spot.

Copying Your Files

Shifting a file to a different folder or simply giving it a new name.

Moving and Renaming

Removing a file or folder permanently from your computer's storage.

Deleting Files Safely

A way to peek inside a document and read its contents directly in your terminal window.

Reading File Text

Pressing the 'Tab' key to let the computer finish typing a long file name for you automatically.

Using Tab Autocomplete

Using the arrow keys to scroll through a history of everything you have typed recently.

Recalling Past Commands

Opening built-in digital guidebooks that explain how to use specific commands and tools.

Accessing Help Manuals

A keyboard shortcut used to instantly stop a process if it is taking too long or running by mistake.

Canceling a Command

A quick command to wipe the screen of all old text so you can start with a fresh, blank view.

Cleaning the Window

Using special marks like a dot or a wavy line to represent common places like 'right here' or 'home'.

Terminal & Shell Basics Concepts