Introduction to the Unix Command Line

Description

Learn and practice how to talk directly to your computer via the command line. The Unix shell is a powerful tool for using scientific software, working with large datasets, and controlling remote servers. It is primarily used to manage files and run programs, and it allows for automation of repetitive tasks. This workshop is a prerequisite for many of DataLab's workshops, including Introduction to Version Control with Git, Reproducible Research for Teams with GitHub, and the Remote Computing series.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the workshop, learners should be able to:

· Explain the directory structure of their computers

· Navigate across and within files and directories

· Create, copy, and delete files

· Use command line tools to edit files

· Identify where to go for help and to learn more

Prerequisites

No prior coding experience is necessary. All participants will need a computer with a Unix shell scripting program (Terminal, Bash, etc.) installed and the latest version of Zoom. A workshop reader will be provided to registered learners to read through prior to the workshop and complete any necessary pre-workshop software installation.

Software

If you are using Windows, you will need to install additional software prior to the start of the workshop. Instructions for installing this software will be circulated to registered learners prior to the session. Office hours are available for installation troubleshooting help.

Instructors: Tyler Shoemaker, Arthur Koehl

Instructor's Biography

Tyler Shoemaker is a Postdoctoral Scholar at the DataLab, where he develops and implements methods for text analysis and natural language processing across a variety of research projects, ranging from the digital humanities to environmental and health sciences.