mkdir Command Guide for Creating Directories

This guide helps you use the mkdir (make directory) command to create new folders in your Unix/Linux file system.

What is mkdir, and Why Use It?

The mkdir command is used to create new directories (folders) in your current or specified location.

Why Learn mkdir?

• Organize files into logical structures
• Set up project folders quickly via CLI
• Automate directory creation in scripts or build systems

Directories are the backbone of how files are structured in Unix. Mastering mkdir is essential for working efficiently in the terminal.

1. Create a Single Directory

mkdir my_folder

Creates my_folder in the current working directory.

2. Create a Directory with a Full Path

mkdir /home/user/projects/my_folder

Makes the directory inside the specified path.

3. Create Parent Directories Automatically

mkdir -p path/to/my_folder

-p creates any missing parent directories along the way.

Without -p, mkdir will fail if intermediate directories don’t already exist.

4. Show Messages When Creating

mkdir -v my_folder

-v (verbose) prints a message for each directory created.

5. Combine Options

mkdir -pv path/to/my_folder

Creates all necessary parent folders and prints confirmation.

mkdir Cheatsheet

💡 Tip: Use mkdir together with cd to create and move into a new directory in one line:

mkdir -p ~/projects/new && cd $_

$_ references the last argument of the previous command — handy for quick navigation.