Related

List Directory Contents

linux

List files and directories in the current or specified directory with various formatting options.

Change Directory

linux

Change the current working directory to a specified path.

Print Working Directory

linux

Display the full path of the current working directory.

linux/mkdir

Make Directory

Create new directories, including nested ones with the `-p` flag.

filesystem
basic
directory
linux

Command

mkdir

Explanation

The `mkdir` (make directory) command creates one or more directories. The `-p` option ensures that no error occurs if the directory already exists and allows creation of full directory paths. It’s commonly used for preparing folder structures in scripts and deployments.

Common Use Cases

  • •Prepare project folder structures
  • •Create nested directories automatically
  • •Set up data storage directories for applications

Best Practices

  • ✓Use `-p` to avoid errors when directories exist
  • ✓Combine with `chmod` to set permissions immediately after creation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ⚠Forgetting to use `-p` when creating nested directories
  • ⚠Attempting to create directories without write permissions

Troubleshooting

Problem: Permission denied creating directory

Solution: Use `sudo mkdir` for system paths or verify directory ownership.

Problem: Cannot create nested directories

Solution: Include `-p` to create parent directories automatically.

Examples

Create a single directory

mkdir newdir

Create nested directories

mkdir -p path/to/newdir

More

Create File or Update Timestamps

linux

Create new empty files or update existing file timestamps.

Copy Files

linux

Copy files and directories from one location to another.

Move or Rename Files

linux

Move or rename files and directories.