Quick Tip

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

Challenge: By default, `ls` hides files and directories that start with a dot (`.`), often used for configuration or hidden data. It’s easy to forget these exist when navigating or troubleshooting.

The Solution: Use the `-A` flag with `ls` to reveal all files and directories, except for the special `.` (current directory) and `..` (parent directory) entries.

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` option tells `ls` to list almost all entries in a directory, specifically including those with a leading dot, which are conventionally hidden.

Pro-Tip: For a truly exhaustive listing including `.` and `..`, use `ls -a` or the more visually appealing `ls -Alh` which shows all entries in long format with human-readable sizes and includes hidden files.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/19/2026