Quick Tip

Mastering `stat`: Instant File Metadata at Your Fingertips

Challenge: You need to quickly get information about a file, such as its size, permissions, owner, and timestamps, without having to remember multiple commands like `ls -l`, `ls -n`, or `date`.

The Solution: Utilize the powerful `stat` command.

stat filename

Why it works: The `stat` command provides a comprehensive summary of a file’s inode data, including all the essential metadata in a single, easy-to-read output. You can also use specific format specifiers for more targeted information.

Pro-Tip: Use `stat -c “%U %G %a %y” filename` to quickly see the owner’s username, group name, octal permissions, and last modification time.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/14/2026