Linux Quiz: 15 Questions to Test Your Basic Linux Knowledge

Explanation: The ls command lists the contents of a directory. You can even use flags like ls -l for more detailed information!
Explanation: The man command displays the manual (help) pages for various Linux commands. For example, man ls shows the manual for the ls command.
How did you do?
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.
Explanation: The sudo command allows a permitted user to execute commands as the superuser or another user, provided they have the necessary privileges.

Question 1: What command is used to list the files and directories in the current working directory?

• A) ls
• B) pwd
• C) cd
• D) rm

Hint: It’s all about permissions! Share your answer in the comments below.

Question 2: Which command shows your current directory path?

• A) pwd
• B) ls
• C) cd
• D) find

So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s jump in! Ready to see how well you really know Linux?

Question 3: What does the chmod command do in Linux?

• A) Changes file permissions
• B) Lists files
• C) Deletes files
• D) Changes file name

Explanation: The cd (change directory) command lets you move between directories. For example, cd /home/user/Documents takes you to the Documents directory.

Question 4: To navigate between directories, which command would you use?

• A) cd
• B) mv
• C) cp
• D) rm

Explanation: The top command shows real-time information about system processes, memory usage, and CPU usage.

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

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.

Question 6: Which command is used to check the available memory in the system?

• A) top
• B) free
• C) df
• D) ps

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.

Question 7: What command is used to copy files from one location to another?

• A) cp
• B) mv
• C) rsync
• D) rm

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 8: What does the top command do?

• A) Lists all files
• B) Shows the current directory
• C) Displays running processes
• D) Changes file permissions

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.

Question 9: To move or rename files, which command would you use?

• A) cp
• B) mv
• C) rm
• D) ls

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 10: Which command is used to remove a file in Linux?

• A) rm
• B) del
• C) delete
• D) remove

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.

Question 11: Which command displays the current logged-in users?

• A) whoami
• B) who
• C) users
• D) id

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 12: Which command is used to display manual pages for a command?

• A) help
• B) man
• C) info
• D) doc

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 13: Which command is used to search for a file by name?

• A) search
• B) find
• C) locate
• D) grep

Can you explain what happens when you run the command chmod 777 filename?

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

Explanation: The mv command is used to move or rename files and directories. For example, mv oldname.txt newname.txt renames a file.

Question 15: How do you shut down a Linux system immediately?

• A) reboot
• B) shutdown -h now
• C) poweroff
• D) exit

Explanation: The who command displays a list of users currently logged into the system.

Challenge Section:

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.
Try practicing these commands more and check out our Linux Command Line Guide.

Your Results:

Explanation: The rm command removes files or directories. Be careful when using rm, as it deletes items permanently.

• 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.

Explanation: The shutdown -h now command immediately powers off the system. Always make sure to save your work before shutting down!

Conclusion

Explanation: The pwd stands for “print working directory” and tells you exactly where you are in the file system.