File test operators (-f, -d, -e, -r, -w, -x) in Bash Scripting - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the -f file test operator check in a bash script?

The -f operator checks if a given path is a regular file (not a directory or special file).

beginner

How do you test if a directory exists using bash file test operators?

Use the -d operator to check if a directory exists at the given path.

intermediate

What is the difference between -e and -f operators?

-e checks if a file or directory exists (any type), while -f checks specifically for a regular file.

beginner

Which file test operator checks if a file is readable?

The -r operator checks if the current user has read permission on the file.

beginner

Explain what -w and -x operators check in bash.

-w checks if the file is writable, and -x checks if the file is executable by the current user.

Which operator would you use to check if a file exists regardless of type?

A -d

B -f

C -e

D -r

The -e operator checks if any file or directory exists at the path.

What does the -d operator test for?

A If a directory exists

B If a regular file exists

C If a file is readable

D If a file is executable

-d tests if the path is a directory.

If you want to check if a file can be executed, which operator do you use?

A -r

B -w

C -f

D -x

-x checks if the file is executable.

Which operator would confirm a file is writable?

A -r

B -w

C -e

D -d

-w checks write permission on the file.

What does -f specifically check?

A File is a regular file

B File is a directory

C File exists (any type)

D File is executable

-f checks if the file is a regular file.

Describe how you would check if a file exists and is readable in a bash script using file test operators.

Think about testing existence first, then readability.

Explain the difference between checking if a path is a directory versus a regular file using bash file test operators.

Directories and files behave differently in scripts.