Related

Make Directory

linux

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

List Directory Contents

linux

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

Copy Files

linux

Copy files and directories from one location to another.

linux/touch

Create File or Update Timestamps

Create new empty files or update existing file timestamps.

filesystem
basic
file
timestamp
linux

Command

touch

Explanation

The `touch` command is often used to quickly create files. If the file exists, `touch` updates its modification time. The `-t` flag allows setting a specific timestamp in the format `[[CC]YY]MMDDhhmm[.ss]`. It’s commonly used in build scripts to ensure file timestamps are current.

Common Use Cases

  • •Create empty placeholder files
  • •Update timestamps for build tools
  • •Modify file metadata without editing contents

Best Practices

  • ✓Use `touch` in scripts to ensure files exist before writing
  • ✓Combine with `mkdir -p` to prepare full paths

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ⚠Using invalid timestamp formats with `-t`
  • ⚠Expecting `touch` to modify file contents

Troubleshooting

Problem: Permission denied creating file

Solution: Ensure you have write access to the directory or use `sudo` if appropriate.

Problem: Timestamp not set correctly

Solution: Double-check timestamp format when using the `-t` flag.

Examples

Create an empty file

touch newfile.txt

Set a specific timestamp

touch -t 202501010000 file.txt

More

Move or Rename Files

linux

Move or rename files and directories.

Remove Files or Directories

linux

Delete files or directories permanently.

Change Directory

linux

Change the current working directory to a specified path.