Quick Tip

Unmask Hidden Files with `ls -A`

Challenge: By default, `ls` doesn’t show hidden files (those starting with a dot `.`). Sometimes you need to quickly see all files, including configuration files or dotfiles, to understand a directory’s contents.

The Solution: Use the `-A` flag with `ls` to show all files, excluding `.` and `..`.

ls -A

Why it works: The `-A` option tells `ls` to list all entries except for the current directory (`.`) and the parent directory (`..`), effectively showing all hidden files alongside visible ones.

Pro-Tip: For a more visual representation of directory structure, including hidden files, try `tree -a`.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/24/2026