macOS Terminal is a powerful tool for performing tasks quickly and efficiently. Below are 10 essential commands, explained step-by-step, that every Mac user should know to navigate, manage files, and troubleshoot effectively.
List Files and Folders:
Use ls to view all files and folders in the current directory. Add -l for detailed info or -a for hidden files.
ls -laChange Directory:
Navigate to a folder with cd. Use cd .. to go up one level or cd ~ to return home.
cd DocumentsPrint Working Directory:
Use pwd to display the full path of your current directory location.
pwdCreate a Folder:
Use mkdir to create a new folder in the current directory.
mkdirCopy Files or Folders:
Copy files with cp. Use -r to copy entire directories.
cp file.txt /path/to/destination
cp -r SourceFolder/ DestinationFolder/
Move or Rename Files:
Use mv to move files to another location or rename them.
mv oldname.txt newname.txt
mv file.txt /path/to/destination/
Delete Files or Folders:
Use rm to delete files or rm -r to remove folders permanently.
rm file.txt
rm -r FolderName
Open Files or Apps:
Use open to launch files, folders, or apps.
open file.txt
open -a "Safari"
Monitor System Performance:
Use top to view live system resource usage like CPU and memory. Exit with Ctrl + C.
top
Shut Down the Mac:
Use sudo shutdown for an immediate or scheduled shutdown.
sudo shutdown -h now
sudo shutdown -h +30
