The man command in Linux is used to view manual pages, which are built-in help files containing documentation for various commands, system calls, functions, and more. When you type man followed by a command or keyword, it opens the corresponding manual page in your default pager (such as less), allowing you to navigate through the documentation using pagination.
Examples of Using the “man” Command:
man ls
This displays the manual page for the ls command, explaining its usage, options, and description.
man -k printf
Use -k to search for commands related to “printf” across all manual sections.
man !!
View help documentation for the last executed command, if it has associated manual pages.
The man command is an essential tool for Linux users, providing access to comprehensive documentation on various utilities and functions. By effectively using man, you can quickly find help with commands, understand their syntax, and navigate your system more efficiently. It’s a cornerstone of effective Linux navigation and learning.