This article covers the mkdir command, a basic Linux tool for creating directories. You'll learn its simple syntax, common options, and practical examples of how to use it. The article will teach you to create single directories, multiple directories, and complex nested directory structures. After reading, you'll be able to organize your files and set up project structures using mkdir.
Key Takeaways
- Create directories easily with the
mkdircommand in Linux - Use options like
-pfor nested directories and-mfor setting permissions - Create multiple directories at once by listing them or using brace expansion
- Set up project structures and organize personal files with
mkdir - Combine
mkdirwith other commands for more advanced directory management
Understanding the Mkdir Command
The mkdir command is a basic Linux utility used to create new directories.
Basic Syntax
mkdir [OPTIONS] DIRECTORY...| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| OPTIONS | Optional flags that modify the command's behavior |
| DIRECTORY | Name or path of the directory to create (can specify multiple) |
Common Options
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| -p | Create parent directories as needed |
| -m | Set file mode (permissions) for the new directory |
| -v | Print a message for each created directory |
Example Usage
mkdir -p -v /home/user/documents/projects/project1This command:
- Creates the 'project1' directory
- Creates any necessary parent directories
- Prints a message for each directory created
Multiple Directory Creation
You can create multiple directories in a single command:
mkdir dir1 dir2 dir3This creates three directories (dir1, dir2, dir3) in the current location.
Setting Permissions
To create a directory with specific permissions:
mkdir -m 755 new_directoryThis creates 'new_directory' with read, write, and execute permissions for the owner, and read and execute permissions for others.
Verbose Output
For detailed information about directory creation:
mkdir -v project_folderThis will output a message confirming the creation of 'project_folder'.
Tip: Use Tab Completion
When creating directories with long or complex paths, use tab completion to save time and avoid typos. Start typing the path and press the Tab key to auto-complete directory names.
Creating Directories with Mkdir
Single Directory Creation
| Command | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
mkdir <directory> |
Creates a directory in the current working directory | mkdir project |
mkdir <absolute_path> |
Creates a directory at the specified absolute path | mkdir /home/user/documents/project |
Tip: Use quotes for spaces
When creating directories with spaces in their names, use quotes to avoid errors:
mkdir "My Project Folder"Multiple Directory Creation
| Command | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
mkdir <dir1> <dir2> <dir3> |
Creates multiple directories in the current working directory | mkdir dir1 dir2 dir3 |
mkdir <prefix>{<range>} |
Creates multiple directories using brace expansion | mkdir project_{1..3} |
Nested Directory Structure
| Command | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
mkdir -p <path/to/nested/directory> |
Creates a nested directory structure, including parent directories | mkdir -p parent/child/grandchild |
mkdir -p <parent>/{<child1>,<child2>,<child3>} |
Creates multiple nested directories within a parent directory | mkdir -p project/{src,docs,tests} |
Advanced Mkdir Usage
Setting Directory Permissions
The mkdir command lets you set directory permissions during creation using the -m option. You can specify permissions in numeric and textual formats.
| Permission Format | Description |
|---|---|
| Numeric (755) | Owner: rwx, Group: rx, Others: rx |
| Textual (u=rwx,g=rx,o=rx) | User: read, write, execute; Group and Others: read, execute |
Using the -m option with numeric permissions:
mkdir -m 755 my_directoryUsing the -m option with textual permissions:
mkdir -m u=rwx,g=rx,o=rx my_directoryTip: Understanding Permission Symbols
Remember that 'r' stands for read, 'w' for write, and 'x' for execute. When using textual permissions, you can mix and match these symbols to create custom permission sets for different user categories.
Verbose Mode
The -v option enables verbose output, which helps confirm directory creation and troubleshoot issues.
To enable verbose mode:
mkdir -v new_directoryCombining verbose mode with other options:
mkdir -pv parent/child/grandchild| Option Combination | Description |
|---|---|
| -pv | Creates parent directories as needed and provides verbose output |
| -mv | Sets permissions and provides verbose output |
Practical Examples
Creating Project Directories
When starting a new project, you can use mkdir to set up a project structure. Here's an example of creating a basic project layout:
mkdir -p my_project/{src,tests,docs,build}
mkdir -p my_project/src/{main,utils}
mkdir -p my_project/tests/{unit,integration}This creates the following structure:
You can change this structure based on your project needs. For example, for a web development project:
mkdir -p web_project/{frontend,backend,database,config}
mkdir -p web_project/frontend/{css,js,images}
mkdir -p web_project/backend/{api,models,controllers}Tip: Use Version Control Directories
When setting up a project structure, consider adding a directory for version control. For example:
mkdir -p my_project/.gitThis creates a hidden directory for Git, which is useful if you plan to use version control for your project.
Organizing Personal Files
mkdir is also useful for organizing personal files. Here are some examples:
Creating a directory structure for photos:
mkdir -p Photos/{2023,2022,2021}/{Jan,Feb,Mar,Apr,May,Jun,Jul,Aug,Sep,Oct,Nov,Dec}Setting up a home directory structure:
mkdir -p ~/{Documents,Downloads,Pictures,Music,Videos}Organizing a digital library:
mkdir -p Library/{Fiction,Non-Fiction}/{Authors,Genres}Creating a backup structure:
mkdir -p Backups/$(date +%Y-%m-%d)/{Documents,Photos,Projects}This creates a dated backup directory with subdirectories for different types of files.
Setting up a financial organization system:
mkdir -p Finances/{Income,Expenses,Investments,Taxes}/$(date +%Y)For more information on using mkdir, you can refer to the GNU Coreutils manual.
