Quick Tip

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

Challenge: You’re working in a directory and want to see all files, including those that start with a dot (hidden files), without listing the current and parent directory entries (`.` and `..`). Standard `ls` doesn’t show these by default.

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

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` (or `–almost-all`) option for `ls` lists all entries except for `.` and `..`, effectively revealing hidden files and directories.

Pro-Tip: For a more visually appealing and informative listing, combine it with `-l` (long format) and `-h` (human-readable sizes): ls -AlhA

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/9/2026