Quick Tip

Taming Terminal Output: The `column` Command for Clean Layouts

Challenge: When dealing with commands that output data in columns, such as `ls -l` or `ps aux`, the output can sometimes be misaligned and difficult to read, especially when dealing with varying field lengths.

The Solution: Pipe the output of such commands to the column utility.

ls -l | column -t

Why it works: The column command, with the -t option, formats its input into a table by detecting columns and aligning them based on the content, creating a neat and readable output.

Pro-Tip: Use ps aux | column -t for a much cleaner process list display.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 6/19/2026