Quick Tip

Unmasking Hidden Files Instantly with `ls -A`

TITLE: Unmasking Hidden Files Instantly with `ls -A`

Challenge: You need to see all files and directories in a directory, including hidden ones that start with a dot (.), but you don’t want to see the special `.` (current directory) and `..` (parent directory) entries.

The Solution: Use the ls -A command.

ls -A

Why it works: The -A (or –almost-all) option for ls displays all entries except for `.` and `..`. This is a common shortcut for quickly viewing dotfiles without unnecessary clutter.

Pro-Tip: For a more visually appealing and feature-rich directory listing, consider installing and using lsd (ls deluxe) which offers color-coding, icons, and Git integration.

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 5/6/2026