Useful Linux Commands

The command:

$ man someCommand

stands for 'manual' and opens the manual page for the Linux command someCommand. For example, entering man cp will show the manual page for the 'copy' command. A manual page includes the description of the command, the list of arguments that the command accepts, and any other essential details for the use of the command. If the manual page is longer than the screen, you can scroll down by pressing and holding the down arrow of your keyboard. To exit the manual page and return to the terminal, press the key 'Q' (stands for 'quit') at any time.

An example of the manual page for cp is shown on the next slide. This page can be accessed by typing:

$ man cp