Quick Tip

Quickly Unmask Hidden Files with `ls -A`

Challenge: By default, the `ls` command doesn’t show hidden files (those starting with a dot `.`) or the special directory entries `.` and `..`. This can make it difficult to see all files within a directory.

The Solution: Use the `-A` option with `ls` to display all entries except for `.` and `..`.

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` flag, also known as `–almost-all`, instructs `ls` to list all files and directories, including those that are hidden, without including the current directory (`.`) and parent directory (`..`) entries.

Pro-Tip: For a more visually appealing and detailed output of all files, including hidden ones, consider using `ls -la` (long listing format, all files).

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/18/2026