Welcome to the world of Linux! You might not realize it, but Linux is everywhere from the server rooms of big tech companies to the devices you use at home, like smartphones, smart TVs, and even some home appliances. It’s the backbone of a lot of technology we use every day.
If you’re new to Linux, don’t worry! This quiz is here to help you learn while having fun. Even if you’ve used Linux a little before, there’s always something new to explore.
Linux might seem tricky at first, especially the terminal (that black screen where you type commands), but once you get the hang of it, you’ll see how powerful and flexible it can be.
This quiz will test some basic commands and concepts, but don’t stress if you’re just starting out. This is a great opportunity to learn and grow your Linux skills in a fun and interactive way.
So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s jump in! Ready to see how well you really know Linux?
Question 1: What command is used to list the files and directories in the current working directory?
Answer: A) ls
Explanation: The ls command lists the contents of a directory. You can even use flags like ls -l for more detailed information!
Question 2: Which command shows your current directory path?
- A)
pwd - B)
ls - C)
cd - D)
find
Answer: A) pwd
Explanation: The pwd stands for “print working directory” and tells you exactly where you are in the file system.
Question 3: What does the chmod command do in Linux?
- A) Changes file permissions
- B) Lists files
- C) Deletes files
- D) Changes file name
Answer: A) Changes file permissions
Explanation: The chmod command is used to change the permissions of a file or directory. For example, chmod 755 filename grants read, write, and execute permissions to the owner and read and execute permissions to others.
Question 4: To navigate between directories, which command would you use?
Answer: A) cd
Explanation: The cd (change directory) command lets you move between directories. For example, cd /home/user/Documents takes you to the Documents directory.
Question 5: You need to find out how much disk space is available on your system. Which command would you use?
- A)
free - B)
df - C)
diskspace - D)
top
Answer: B) df
Explanation: The df command reports the available disk space for each mounted file system. You can use df -h to get a human-readable format.
Question 6: Which command is used to check the available memory in the system?
- A)
top - B)
free - C)
df - D)
ps
Answer: B) free
Explanation: The free command shows the available, used, and free memory in your system. You can use free -h for a more readable format.
Question 7: What command is used to copy files from one location to another?
- A)
cp - B)
mv - C)
rsync - D)
rm
Answer: A) cp
Explanation: The cp command is used to copy files and directories. For example, cp file1.txt file2.txt copies file1.txt to file2.txt.
Question 8: What does the top command do?
- A) Lists all files
- B) Shows the current directory
- C) Displays running processes
- D) Changes file permissions
Answer: C) Displays running processes
Explanation: The top command shows real-time information about system processes, memory usage, and CPU usage.
Question 9: To move or rename files, which command would you use?
Answer: B) mv
Explanation: The mv command is used to move or rename files and directories. For example, mv oldname.txt newname.txt renames a file.
Question 10: Which command is used to remove a file in Linux?
- A)
rm - B)
del - C)
delete - D)
remove
Answer: A) rm
Explanation: The rm command removes files or directories. Be careful when using rm, as it deletes items permanently.
Question 11: Which command displays the current logged-in users?
- A)
whoami - B)
who - C)
users - D)
id
Answer: B) who
Explanation: The who command displays a list of users currently logged into the system.
Question 12: Which command is used to display manual pages for a command?
- A)
help - B)
man - C)
info - D)
doc
Answer: B) man
Explanation: The man command displays the manual (help) pages for various Linux commands. For example, man ls shows the manual for the ls command.
Question 13: Which command is used to search for a file by name?
- A)
search - B)
find - C)
locate - D)
grep
Answer: B) find
Explanation: The find command helps you search for files by name or other criteria. For example, find /home/user/ -name "*.txt" searches for all .txt files in the /home/user/ directory.
Question 14: What does the sudo command do?
- A) Executes a command as another user
- B) Starts a new shell
- C) Copies files
- D) Changes the system settings
Answer: A) Executes a command as another user
Explanation: The sudo command allows a permitted user to execute commands as the superuser or another user, provided they have the necessary privileges.
Question 15: How do you shut down a Linux system immediately?
- A)
reboot - B)
shutdown -h now - C)
poweroff - D)
exit
Answer: B) shutdown -h now
Explanation: The shutdown -h now command immediately powers off the system. Always make sure to save your work before shutting down!
Challenge Section:
Can you explain what happens when you run the command chmod 777 filename?
Hint: It’s all about permissions! Share your answer in the comments below.
Your Results:
How did you do?
- 12-15 correct answers: You’re a Linux pro! Keep exploring and mastering new commands.
- 8-11 correct answers: Not bad! You’re getting there, try practicing some more commands to improve.
- Below 8: Keep going! Linux is powerful, and you’re just getting started.
Try practicing these commands more and check out our Linux Command Line Guide.
Conclusion
Linux is a powerful operating system, and mastering its basics is essential to using it effectively. Whether you’re administering servers or just using Linux on your personal machine, these fundamental commands will help you feel more comfortable navigating and managing your system.
