Quick Tip

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

Challenge: By default, ls does not show hidden files (those starting with a dot, e.g., .bashrc). This can be inconvenient when you need to quickly view or edit configuration files.

The Solution: Use the -A flag with ls to display all files, including hidden ones, except for the current directory (.) and parent directory (..).

ls -A

Why it works: The -A option modifies the default behavior of ls to include entries starting with a dot, providing a more comprehensive view of directory contents without cluttering the output with the special . and .. entries.

Pro-Tip: For an even more verbose listing of hidden files, including . and .., use ls -a.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/31/2026