Quick Tip

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

Challenge: You need to see all files in a directory, including those that start with a dot (hidden files), but `ls` by default hides them.

The Solution: Use the -A flag with the ls command.

ls -A

Why it works: The -A (or --almost-all) option tells ls to list all entries except for . and .., effectively showing all hidden files and directories.

Pro-Tip: Combine it with -l for a detailed, “almost-all” listing: ls -lA

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/28/2026