2.1 Introduction to Bash Scripting

Question 1

What is Bash scripting?

Answer 1

It is a powerful way to automate tasks in the Linux environment.

Question 2

What is a shell script?

Answer 2

It is a text file that contains a series of commands for a Unix-based operating system.

Question 3

Why should you use shell scripting/what are the advantages of shell scripting?

Answer 3

1. Automation: Scripts can be used to automate repetitive tasks, reducing errors and manual effort.
2. Efficiency: Scripts can process tasks faster than a human could, especially for bulk or complex operations.
3. Customization: They allow users to tailor their environment and workflows to meet specific needs.
4. Integration: Shell scripts can integrate various commands and tools, enabling seamless workflows.
5. Portability: Shell scripts can be run on any Unix-like system without modification.

Question 4

What is a shell?

Answer 4

It is a command line interpreter that provides a user interface for Unix operating systems.

Question 5

What is the most commonly used shell in Linux systems?

Answer 5

Bash

Question 6

What are some common shells you know?

Answer 6

1. Bash
2. C shell
3. Korn Shell
4. sh
5. Z shell

Question 7

What does Bash stand for?

Answer 7

Bourne Again Shell

Question 8

What does sh stand for?

Answer 8

Bourne Shell

Question 9

How do you verify what shell you are currently using?

Answer 9

echo $SHELL

Question 10

How do you list all your available shells?

Answer 10

cat /etc/shells

Question 11

Where are shells found in the Linux file system?

Answer 11

/etc/shells

Question 12

What happens when you run a script file?

Answer 12

1. The shell reads the file.
2. It breaks the commands down into understandable units.
3. It executes each command in a sequence.

Question 13

What is the preferred file extension for script files?

Answer 13

.sh

Question 14

In a script file what is the purpose of the Shebang (#!)?

Answer 14

It is used to specify the interpreter to be used.

Question 15

What are the importance of comments in scripts?

Answer 15

1. Code Readability: Comments make the script easier to read and understand, especially for someone who did not write it or is revisiting the code after a long time.
2. Maintenance: Well-commented code is easier to maintain, debug, and update. It helps in identifying the purpose of code segments quickly.
3. Collaboration: When working in a team, comments help other team members understand the logic and functionality of the script, facilitating better collaboration.
4. Documentation: Comments serve as inline documentation, explaining the purpose and functionality of the script, which is helpful for both users and developers.