Quick Tip

Unmask Hidden Files with `ls -A`

Challenge: You need to see all files in a directory, including hidden dotfiles, without cluttering your output with `.` and `..`.

The Solution: Use `ls -A` to list all entries except for `.` and `..`.

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` option (or `–almost-all`) tells `ls` to include all files and directories, including those starting with a dot (`.`), but it intelligently excludes the current directory (`.`) and the parent directory (`..`).

Pro-Tip: Combine with `-l` for a detailed, hidden-file-inclusive listing: ls -lA

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/2/2026