cd

Overview

The cd (change directory) command is used to change the current working directory in Linux and Unix-like operating systems. It’s one of the most fundamental shell commands.

Syntax

cd [options] [directory]

Common Options

Option Description
-L Follow symbolic links (default)
-P Use physical directory structure
-e Exit if error occurs
--help Display help message
- Change to previous directory
~ Change to home directory
.. Move up one directory
. Current directory

Key Use Cases

  1. Navigate directory structure
  2. Return to home directory
  3. Move between directories
  4. Access relative paths
  5. Follow symbolic links

Examples with Explanations

Example 1: Basic Navigation

cd /usr/local/bin

Change to specified directory

Example 2: Return Home

cd ~
# or simply
cd

Change to home directory

Example 3: Previous Directory

cd -

Return to previous directory

Understanding Output

  • No output on success
  • Error messages for:
    • Permission denied
    • No such directory
    • Not a directory
    • Path too long

Common Usage Patterns

  1. Relative navigation:

    cd ../directory

  2. Absolute navigation:

    cd /absolute/path

  3. Home subdirectory:

    cd ~/Documents

Performance Analysis

  • Built-in shell command
  • Instant execution
  • No external process
  • Memory efficient
  • Path resolution impact

Additional Resources