Related

Change Directory

linux

Change the current working directory to a specified path.

List Directory Contents

linux

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

Make Directory

linux

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

linux/pwd

Print Working Directory

Display the full path of the current working directory.

filesystem
navigation
basic
linux

Command

pwd

Explanation

`pwd` stands for 'print working directory'. It helps users confirm their current location in the filesystem. It resolves symbolic links and shows the full, absolute path of the directory you are currently in.

Common Use Cases

  • •Check your current directory before running file operations
  • •Confirm absolute paths for scripting
  • •Debug navigation errors in scripts

Best Practices

  • ✓Use `pwd` before operations like `cp`, `mv`, or `rm` to avoid mistakes
  • ✓Combine with `cd` in scripts to log current locations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ⚠Confusing relative and absolute paths
  • ⚠Using `pwd` inside scripts without handling symbolic links properly

Troubleshooting

Problem: Shows unexpected path due to symbolic link

Solution: Use `pwd -P` to print the physical path without symbolic links.

Examples

Show current directory path

pwd

More

Copy Files

linux

Copy files and directories from one location to another.

Move or Rename Files

linux

Move or rename files and directories.

Remove Files or Directories

linux

Delete files or directories permanently.