How to Use mkdir Command in Linux: Syntax and Examples

Use the mkdir command in Linux to create new directories by typing mkdir directory_name. You can create multiple directories at once or nested directories using options like -p.

Syntax

The basic syntax of the mkdir command is:

• mkdir [options] directory_name

Here, directory_name is the name of the directory you want to create. Options modify the behavior, such as creating parent directories.

bash

mkdir [options] directory_name

Example

This example shows how to create a single directory, multiple directories, and nested directories using mkdir.

bash

mkdir myfolder
mkdir folder1 folder2 folder3
mkdir -p parent/child/grandchild

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes include trying to create a nested directory without the -p option, which causes an error if parent directories don't exist. Also, forgetting permissions can cause failure.

bash

mkdir parent/child
# Error: No such file or directory
mkdir -p parent/child
# Correct: creates all needed directories

Output

mkdir: cannot create directory ‘parent/child’: No such file or directory

Quick Reference

Option	Description
-p	Create parent directories as needed
-v	Show a message for each created directory
-m mode	Set permissions for the new directory
--help	Display help information

Key Takeaways

Use mkdir directory_name to create a single directory.

Use mkdir -p path/to/directory to create nested directories in one command.

Multiple directories can be created at once by listing them after mkdir.

Without -p, creating nested directories fails if parents don't exist.

Use -v to see confirmation messages when directories are created.