Quick Tip

Tame Your Terminal: Unmask Hidden Files with `ls -A`

Challenge: You’re trying to list all files in a directory, but `ls` by default hides files and directories starting with a dot (e.g., `.bashrc`, `.config`).

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

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` option (short for ‘almost all’) tells `ls` to display all files and directories, including hidden ones, without listing the current directory (`.`) and parent directory (`..`).

Pro-Tip: Combine it with `-l` for a detailed long listing: ls -Al

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/27/2026