`cd` Command Guide for moving between directories(folders)

This guide helps you understand and use the cd (change directory) command, which is the core way to navigate through the filesystem in any Unix-like environment.

What is `cd`, and Why Use It?

The cd command allows you to move between directories (folders) in the terminal. It's the fundamental way to navigate the Unix file system, which is organized as a tree starting from the root (/).

Why Learn `cd`?

Navigate the system: Move to configuration directories, user folders, or project files.
Access files faster: Quickly reach your working directory.
Enable other commands: Tools like ls, git, scp, or cp rely on being in the right location.
Work remotely: On SSH sessions or servers without a GUI, cd is essential.

Without cd, you're stuck in one folder — limiting your ability to explore or manage the system.

1. Basic Usage

cd /path/to/folder

Changes the working directory to the specified absolute path.

Example:

cd /etc/nginx/

2. Navigate Using Relative Paths

cd ..

.. means “go up one level” from the current folder.

cd ../logs

Moves up and into a sibling folder.

3. Shortcut to Home Directory

cd ~

~ refers to your home directory (e.g., /home/yourname on Linux).

cd

Also takes you to your home directory.

4. Move Back to Previous Directory

cd -

Returns you to the directory you were in before the last cd command.

5. Combine with `ls` for File Awareness

After navigating, use:

ls

Lists the contents of the current directory so you can see what's inside.

Understanding cd is only the beginning. You'll commonly use these commands together:

Command	Description
`ls`	List contents of a directory
`pwd`	Show the current working directory path
`cp`	Copy files or directories
`mv`	Move or rename files/folders
`rm`	Delete files or directories
`mkdir`	Create a new directory
`rmdir`	Remove an empty directory

Unix Filesystem Basics

Here’s a quick overview of the standard structure you’ll be navigating:

/
├── bin      → essential system programs
├── home     → user folders (e.g., /home/alice)
├── etc      → system configuration files
├── var      → logs, spool files, cache
├── usr      → shared and user-installed software
├── tmp      → temporary runtime files

Every directory is part of this tree. You navigate it using cd, inspect it using ls, and interact with its contents using tools like cp, mv, and rm.

Command	Description
`cd path/`	Move into a directory
`cd ..`	Go up one directory level
`cd ~`	Go to your home directory
`cd -`	Return to previous directory
`pwd`	Show current directory path
`ls`	List files and folders
`cp a b`	Copy file `a` to `b`
`mv a b`	Move or rename file `a` to `b`
`rm a`	Delete file `a`
`mkdir name/`	Make a new folder

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