cd
Change the current working directory to navigate the filesystem.
Synopsis
cd [DIRECTORY]
Examples
cd /var/log
cd ~
cd ..
cd -
Common options
| Flag | Description |
|---|---|
| - | Switch to previous directory ($OLDPWD) |
| -P | Use physical directory structure, resolve symlinks |
| -L | Follow symbolic links (default) |
About cd
The `cd` command change the current working directory to navigate the filesystem. File operation commands are essential for navigating and managing the Linux filesystem.
They form the backbone of everyday system administration and development workflows. Mastering these commands enables you to efficiently create, move, copy, and organize files and directories from the terminal, which is often faster and more scriptable than graphical alternatives.
The command accepts 3 commonly used flags shown above, though the full set of options is available in the man page (`man cd`). The 4 examples on this page cover typical real-world usage patterns that you can copy and adapt for your own workflows.
Related commands
More File Operations Commands
Other commands in the File Operations category