Hands-on Introduction to Linux Commands and Shell Scripting Course Syllabus

Overview: This hands-on course introduces beginners to Linux commands and shell scripting, designed to build confidence and fluency in command-line environments. Over five weeks, learners will progress from navigating the Linux file system to writing and executing basic shell scripts. Each module includes practical exercises that reinforce key concepts. Estimated time commitment is approximately 5-7 hours per week, with a total of 25-35 hours for the full course. The course concludes with a hands-on final project to demonstrate proficiency.

Module 1: Introduction to Linux and Shell

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Linux architecture and operating system basics
• Differences between terminal and GUI interfaces
• Understanding the shell and its role in Linux
• Launching the Linux command-line interface and navigating the file system

Module 2: Essential Linux Commands

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Using ls, cd, pwd for file system navigation
• Managing files with cp, mv, rm
• Creating directories using mkdir
• Viewing and displaying content with cat, echo, and man

Module 3: Permissions and Ownership

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Understanding file access levels and ownership
• Using chmod to modify file permissions
• Changing ownership with chown
• Interpreting symbolic and numeric permission modes

Module 4: Shell Scripting Basics

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Structure and syntax of shell scripts
• Defining and using variables
• Implementing conditionals (if statements)
• Using loops (for and while) in scripts

Module 5: Advanced Scripting Techniques

Estimated time: 7 hours

• Chaining commands with pipes and redirection
• Creating and using functions in scripts
• Handling command-line arguments
• Debugging common scripting errors

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Create a reusable shell script to automate a system administration task
• Apply file permissions and ownership settings appropriately
• Include user input handling and error checking

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic computer operations
• No prior Linux experience required
• Access to a Linux environment or terminal emulator

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Navigate Linux file systems confidently using the command line
• Perform file and directory operations with essential Linux commands
• Modify file permissions and ownership settings securely
• Write, execute, and debug basic shell scripts
• Automate common tasks using command chaining and scripting techniques