Write a simple shell script

[stottj]

Summary

Learn how to write a simple shell script to automate a series of commands. This introduction will cover the basics of scripting, including variables, loops, and conditionals.

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Description

• Objective: Acquire the skills to write a basic shell script that can automate tasks, use variables, and incorporate simple control structures like loops and conditionals.

• Scope:

  • Introduction to shell scripting
  • Writing a basic script
  • Running a shell script

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Learning Tasks

1. Introduction to Shell Scripting:

   • Learn what a shell script is and how it can help automate repetitive tasks.

2. Writing a Basic Script:

   • Understand the components of a shell script, including shebang, comments, variables, and commands.

3. Running a Shell Script:

   • Learn how to give execute permission to the script and how to run it in the shell.

4. Hands-on Practice:

   • Exercise 1: Create a new shell script file with a .sh extension. Add the shebang line at the top, #!/bin/bash.
   • Exercise 2: Write commands in the shell script to create a new directory and navigate into it.
   • Exercise 3: Use variables to store the directory name and echo a message.
   • Exercise 4: Add conditional statements to check if the directory already exists before creating it.
   • Exercise 5: Make the script executable using chmod +x script_name.sh and run it with ./script_name.sh.

5. Troubleshooting:

   • Discuss common issues that can arise while writing and running shell scripts and how to debug them.

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Learning Goals

• Gain a fundamental understanding of shell scripts and why they are useful for automation.
• Learn to write a simple shell script incorporating variables, commands, and basic control structures.
• Become proficient in running shell scripts to automate tasks efficiently.

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Priority

• Medium