So, for example, if you renamed 'file.txt' to just 'textfile' then open textfile would still open it in the default text-file editing application, as long as file textfile still thought that 'textfile' was actually a text file. You can use the 'file' command to reveal what the operating system thinks the file type is: file file.txt. By default, this will be /Applications/TextEdit.app however, it's possible for this setting to get overridden:įinally, any file that's of the 'text' type will get opened by the application bound to the text type if you just say open file.txt. The -t option means 'open the file with the default application for editing text files, as determined via LaunchServices'. This guide takes a look at some of the most important Linux commands that will help you to get help on Linux Commands from the command-line and to enhance your learning on your way to mastering Linux commands. Often referred to as the shell, terminal, console, prompt or various other names, it can give the appearance of being complex and confusing to use. The -e option means 'open the file argument with the TextEdit application': Overview The Linux command line is a text interface to your computer. Linux and Unix-like systems such as macOS provide several commands to shutdown or reboot your system right from the command line.

The -a option means 'open the file argument with the named application': If you’re working on a GUI-less server or you’re on an SSH session to a remote computer, the command line is your only option. Here are some possible answers, all using the 'open' command-line utility.

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