“dirs” is a command-line utility that allows users to view and manipulate the directory stack. The directory stack is a list of recently visited directories, and it can be modified using the “pushd” and “popd” commands.
The primary purpose of “dirs” is to provide users with an overview of the directory stack and enable them to navigate between previously visited directories efficiently.
When executed without any arguments, the “dirs” command displays the contents of the directory stack. Each directory entry is shown along with an index number, indicating its position in the stack. The most recent directory visited is displayed at the top of the list, while the least recent directory is shown at the bottom.
By default, “dirs” lists the directories in the stack in reverse order, starting with the most recent. However, command-line options can be used to modify the output format and sort order according to specific preferences.
In addition to displaying the directory stack, “dirs” also supports various operations for manipulating the stack using the “pushd” and “popd” commands.
- “pushd” allows users to add a directory to the stack and change the current directory to the specified directory. This effectively moves the specified directory to the top of the stack.
- “popd” removes the topmost directory from the stack and changes the current directory to the new topmost directory in the stack.
The combination of “dirs” with “pushd” and “popd” commands offers a powerful way to navigate and manage directory history. Users can easily switch between directories they have recently visited by manipulating the directory stack.
By leveraging the directory stack functionality, users can navigate to directories deeper in the stack without explicitly specifying the full path. They can simply use the index number associated with the desired directory in the stack, making directory traversal more convenient and efficient.
It’s worth noting that the directory stack maintained by “dirs” is specific to the current shell session. When the shell session is terminated, the directory stack is reset.
dirs Command Examples
1. Display the directory stack with a space between each entry:
# dirs
2. Display the directory stack with one entry per line:
# dirs -p
3. Display only the nth entry in the directory stack, starting at 0:
# dirs +N
4. Clear the directory stack:
# dirs -c
Summary
In summary, “dirs” is a command-line utility that displays and manipulates the directory stack. It provides users with an overview of recently visited directories, allowing them to navigate between directories efficiently. By utilizing the “pushd” and “popd” commands, users can add directories to the stack, remove directories from the stack, and easily switch between previously visited directories without specifying their full paths. The directory stack functionality enhances directory navigation and management in the command-line environment.