Understanding the nuances of each Linux command can be a daunting task for newcomers and seasoned users alike. However, one tool that stands out as an essential resource is the man command. Here's everything you need to know about the man command on Linux, including how to use it, and how to escape its grasp when you're done.
What Is the man Command in Linux?
The man command, short for "manual," is an indispensable Linux command. It serves as a built-in documentation system that provides detailed information about other Linux commands, functions, and configuration files.
With man, you can gain comprehensive insights into how to use a command, its various options, and even examples of its practical usage.
To use the man command, simply open your terminal and type man followed by the name of the command you want to learn more about. For example, to access the manual for the ls command (used to list files and directories), enter:
man lsAfter executing this command, you will be presented with a detailed manual page that includes a description of the command's purpose, a list of its available options, and usage examples. You can navigate through the manual using your keyboard's arrow keys or other specified navigation keys, depending on your terminal.
The man command can sometimes be very long and verbose, but not to worry, you can use commands like tldr to shorten the man page.
How to Exit the man Command Documentation
While the man command is incredibly informative, you might find yourself wondering how to exit this documentation system once you've gained the information you need. Exiting it is a simple task. To return to your terminal prompt, you can use one of the following methods:
- Press Q: The most straightforward way to exit is to press the Q key. This action will instantly return you to your terminal.
- Use Ctrl + Z and bg: You can pause the man using Ctrl + Z to make it run in the background. You can also bring it back to the foreground momentarily by typing fg and then using the Q key to exit.
Getting Command-Line Help on Linux With man
The man command is not the only resource at your disposal. There are alternatives like appending the -h option to a command, which provides a quick and concise help page.
Additionally, tools like TLDR and ExplainShell offer simplified command explanations and modern file listing, respectively, making your journey through the Linux universe more accessible and efficient.