You try to delete a directory named docs using rm docs but get the error: rm: cannot remove 'docs': Is a directory. What is the correct way to remove it?

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Linux CLI - File and Directory Operations

You try to delete a directory named docs using rm docs but get the error: rm: cannot remove 'docs': Is a directory. What is the correct way to remove it?

AUse <code>rm -r docs</code> to remove the directory and its contents

BUse <code>rm -f docs</code> to force delete the directory

CUse <code>rm docs/*</code> to delete files inside only

DUse <code>rm --dir docs</code> to delete the directory

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Understand the error
The error indicates rm cannot delete directories without recursive option.
Step 2: Use recursive deletion
rm -r deletes directories and their contents recursively.
Step 3: Evaluate other options
-f forces deletion but does not allow directory removal alone; rm docs/* deletes files inside but not the directory; --dir is not a valid option.
Final Answer:
Use rm -r docs -> Option A
Quick Check:
Directories require -r to remove [OK]

Quick Trick: Use rm -r to delete directories and contents [OK]

Common Mistakes:

Using rm without -r on directories
Assuming -f deletes directories forcibly
Trying invalid options like --dir

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You try to delete a directory named docs using rm docs but get the error: rm: cannot remove 'docs': Is a directory. What is the correct way to remove it?

Step 1: Understand the error

Step 2: Use recursive deletion

Step 3: Evaluate other options

Final Answer:

Quick Check:

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