Mastering PWD Command in Linux: Essential Tips and Tricks（pwdlinux）

The pwd command in Linux is an essential tool for locating a user’s current remote or local directory. The command is simple; it allows a user to output the path of the current working directory in Linux. The basic syntax for the pwd command is as follows:

$ pwd

This will output the current directory’s absolute path. However, Linux does offer other features and fun tricks when using the pwd command to explore a file system. Let’s take a look at some of the most advantageous tips and tricks.

1. Viewing a tilde path

To omit the full path length and only show the relative directory path, enter the “tilde” or “~” character after the pwd command. This is useful if the file path is long, making it difficult to see the home directory. The command looks like this:

$ pwd ~

2. Outputting a path within quotes

To output the directory path within quotation marks, use the “-P” flag when running the pwd command. This is especially useful for scripting when inputting changed paths into files. Best practice suggests using this also for commands which are sensitive of paths with contains spaces. The command looks like this:

$ pwd -P

3. Viewing the executing layers

The “-LP” flag allows a user to view the various layers which are being accounted to reach the current directory. For example; if the working directory is nested in several folders, the -LP flag will show the direct path, being the nested folders, each separated by a ‘/’. The command looks like this:

$ pwd -LP

4. Creating an absolute path

To generate the absolute path of any directory, the “-P” flag should be combined with the “readlink” command. This allows users to bypass possible symbolic folder links, to produce an absolute path. The command looks like this:

$ readlink -f

5. Saving paths as variables

Using the “$()” operation, a user can extract the absolute path of a directory and save it using a variable. This is a very efficient way of using the pwd command, as the path can be stored in a variable. The command looks like this:

$ LINKPATH=$(pwd)

By reviewing the various useful tips and tricks of the pwd command in Linux, an admin can gain greater control over their current working directory. This enhances security, preventing users from accessing potentially fragile folders. Therefore, learn to master the pwd command in Linux, and reap the benefits of a controlled file system.