[Solved] Why does the command cmd1 && cmd2 || cmd3 sometimes run cmd3 even if cmd1 succeeds? — Ans: Because && and || have equal precedence and left associativity | Linux CLI

Linux CLI - Pipes and Redirection

Why does the command cmd1 && cmd2 || cmd3 sometimes run cmd3 even if cmd1 succeeds?

ABecause || has higher precedence than &&

BBecause && and || have equal precedence and left associativity

CBecause cmd2's exit code affects || execution

DBecause cmd3 always runs after cmd2

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Understand operator precedence
In shell, && and || have equal precedence and are left associative, so evaluated left to right.
Step 2: Analyze command behavior
cmd1 && cmd2 runs first; if cmd2 fails, || cmd3 runs. If cmd2 succeeds, cmd3 does not run.
Final Answer:
Because && and || have equal precedence and left associativity, cmd3 runs only if cmd2 fails. -> Option B
Quick Check:
Equal precedence and left associativity explain chaining [OK]

Quick Trick: && and || have equal precedence, evaluated left to right [OK]

Common Mistakes:

Master "Pipes and Redirection" in Linux CLI

9 interactive learning modes - each teaches the same concept differently

More Linux CLI Quizzes

Why does the command cmd1 && cmd2 || cmd3 sometimes run cmd3 even if cmd1 succeeds?