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mkdir

file managementLinux/Unix
The mkdir command is one of the most frequently used commands in Linux/Unix-like operating systems. mkdir Sample fallback description for mkdir
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Quick Reference

Command Name:

mkdir

Category:

file management

Platform:

Linux/Unix

Basic Usage:

mkdir new_directory

Common Use Cases

  • 1

    Directory creation

    Create new directories in the filesystem

  • 2

    File organization

    Organize files and directories hierarchically

  • 3

    Project setup

    Create project directories for new projects

  • 4

    Temporary directories

    Create temporary directories for temporary files

Syntax

mkdir [OPTION]... [FILE]...

Options

Option Description
-l Use a long listing format
-a Show hidden entries starting with .
-h Human-readable sizes
-R List subdirectories recursively

Examples

How to Use These Examples

The examples below show common ways to use the mkdir command. Try them in your terminal to see the results. You can copy any example by clicking on the code block.

Basic Examples:

ls
List files in the current directory.
ls -l
List files in long format with details.
ls -a
List all files including hidden ones.

Advanced Examples:

ls -lah Detailed list with human-readable sizes. ls -R List directories recursively.

Try It Yourself

Practice makes perfect! The best way to learn is by trying these examples on your own system with real files.

Understanding Syntax

Pay attention to the syntax coloring: commands, options, and file paths are highlighted differently.

Notes

These are sample notes for the mkdir command.

Tips & Tricks

1

Use the -p option to create parent directories as needed

2

Use the -m mode option to set the permission mode

3

Use the -v option to display a message for each created directory

4

Use the -Z option to set the SELinux security context

5

Use the -Z option to set the ACL (Access Control List) entries

Common Use Cases

Directory creation

Create new directories in the filesystem

File organization

Organize files and directories hierarchically

Project setup

Create project directories for new projects

Temporary directories

Create temporary directories for temporary files

Scripting

Use in shell scripts to create directories programmatically

Related Commands

These commands are frequently used alongside mkdir or serve similar purposes:

rmdir
touch
cp
mv
ls
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Use Cases

1

Directory creation

Create new directories in the filesystem

2

File organization

Organize files and directories hierarchically

3

Project setup

Create project directories for new projects

4

Temporary directories

Create temporary directories for temporary files

5

Scripting

Use in shell scripts to create directories programmatically

Learn By Doing

The best way to learn Linux commands is by practicing. Try out these examples in your terminal to build muscle memory and understand how the mkdir command works in different scenarios.

See ExamplesTry Lab Exercises
$ mkdir
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