Quick Tip

Unmask Hidden Files Instantly with `ls -A`

Challenge: You need to see all files and directories in a directory, including those that start with a dot (hidden files), without listing the special `.` (current directory) and `..` (parent directory) entries.

The Solution: Use the `-A` option with the `ls` command.

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` (or `–almost-all`) option tells `ls` to list all entries except for `.` and `..`. This is useful for quickly checking configuration files or dotfiles without the clutter of the directory navigation entries.

Pro-Tip: For an even more visually informative listing, combine it with `-l` for long format: ls -Al.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 6/9/2026