How to Learn Ubuntu Commands Like a Pro 💻
Learning Ubuntu commands is one of the best ways to understand how Linux really works. Whether you’re a beginner or a curious developer, mastering the terminal gives you more power, speed, and control over your system.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to start using Ubuntu commands step-by-step, with tips, examples, and free resources.
🧭 1. Start with the Basics
The terminal is your control center in Ubuntu.
Open it by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T or searching “Terminal” in your app menu.
Here are some basic commands to get started:
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
pwd |
Show your current directory |
ls |
List files and folders |
cd foldername |
Change directory |
mkdir myfolder |
Create a new folder |
rmdir myfolder |
Remove an empty folder |
cp file1 file2 |
Copy files |
mv file1 file2 |
Move or rename files |
rm file |
Delete a file |
cat file |
View file content |
clear |
Clear your screen |
🪄 Tip: Try typing these commands one by one — repetition builds confidence.
⚙️ 2. Manage Your Ubuntu System
Once you’re comfortable with navigation, move to system-level commands.
🧩 Software Management
Use APT (Advanced Package Tool) to install or update software:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install packagename
sudo apt remove packagename
🧠 System Monitoring
These commands help you check your system performance:
df -h # Check disk usage
free -h # Show memory usage
top # View running processes
📘 3. Use Built-In Help
Ubuntu has powerful built-in help tools that you can use anytime:
man command # Opens manual (e.g. man ls)
command --help # Shows short help for that command
🧩 Example:
man mkdir
This shows all details about how to create directories, available options, and examples.
🧠 4. Practice Every Day
The best way to learn Ubuntu commands is through daily use.
Try these small exercises:
-
Create, rename, and delete folders.
-
Install software using the terminal.
-
Monitor CPU and memory usage.
-
Use only the terminal for 15–30 minutes a day.
The more you use it, the more natural it feels. 💪
🌐 5. Explore Free Learning Resources
Here are some great resources to boost your learning:
-
🎥 YouTube Channels:
-
NetworkChuck
-
ProgrammingKnowledge
-
DistroTube
-
⚙️ 6. Go Beyond the Basics
Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals, try exploring:
-
File permissions (
chmod,chown) -
User management (
adduser,passwd) -
Network commands (
ping,curl,ifconfig) -
Process management (
ps,kill,systemctl) -
Shell scripting (Bash) — to automate daily tasks
💡 Pro Tip: Create Your Own Cheat Sheet
Make a personal Linux Command Cheat Sheet — write every new command you learn.
You’ll build a strong reference list and memorize faster.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Learning Ubuntu commands isn’t just about memorizing syntax — it’s about understanding how Linux thinks.
With a bit of daily practice, you’ll be able to manage, troubleshoot, and even automate your system with ease.
“The GUI shows what’s possible.
The command line shows what’s powerful.” ⚡
