cp (copy files and directories) in Linux CLI - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the cp command do in Linux?

The cp command copies files or directories from one location to another.

beginner

How do you copy a file named file1.txt to file2.txt using cp?

Use the command: cp file1.txt file2.txt. This copies the contents of file1.txt into a new file called file2.txt.

beginner

What option do you use with cp to copy directories recursively?

Use the -r or --recursive option to copy directories and all their contents.

intermediate

What does the -i option do when used with cp?

The -i option asks for confirmation before overwriting an existing file.

intermediate

How can you preserve file attributes like timestamps and permissions when copying with cp?

Use the -p option to preserve the original file's mode, ownership, and timestamps.

Which cp option copies directories and their contents?

A -v

B -p

C -i

D -r

The -r option copies directories recursively, including all files inside.

What happens if you run cp file1.txt file2.txt and file2.txt already exists?

A It deletes <code>file1.txt</code>

B It merges the two files

C It overwrites <code>file2.txt</code> without asking

D It creates a backup automatically

By default, cp overwrites the destination file without asking.

Which option makes cp ask before overwriting files?

A -v

B -i

C -r

D -p

The -i option stands for interactive mode and asks before overwriting.

How do you copy a file and keep its original timestamps and permissions?

A cp -p

B cp -i

C cp -r

D cp -v

The -p option preserves file attributes like timestamps and permissions.

What does the -v option do when used with cp?

A Shows each file being copied

B Preserves file permissions

C Copies files faster

D Copies directories recursively

The -v option stands for verbose and shows the copy progress.

Explain how to copy a directory and all its contents to a new location using cp.

Think about how to include all files inside the directory.

Describe how to safely copy a file without accidentally overwriting an existing file.

This option asks you before replacing files.