How to use the command "clifm" (with examples)

The command “clifm” is a command-line file manager that allows users to navigate and manage their files and directories using the command line interface. It provides a set of features and options to perform various file operations efficiently. This article provides examples of how to use the “clifm” command for different use cases.

Use case 1: Start CliFM

Code:

clifm

Motivation: Starting CliFM is the first step to accessing and managing files and directories using the command line. By running the “clifm” command, you can launch the file manager and start interacting with your files.

Explanation: The “clifm” command is used to start the CliFM file manager. The command does not require any additional arguments or options.

Example output: The CliFM file manager interface is displayed, showing the current directory’s contents.

Use case 2: Open a file or directory by ELN (entry list number)

Code:

12

Motivation: The ELN (entry list number) is a useful feature in CliFM that allows users to quickly open files or directories by their corresponding number. This can be helpful when navigating through large lists of files or directories and saves time.

Explanation: To open a file or directory by its ELN in CliFM, you can simply enter the ELN number and press the Enter key. The ELN number can be obtained by running the “ls” command in CliFM.

Example output: If ELN 12 corresponds to a directory named “documents”, CliFM will open the “documents” directory and display its contents.

Use case 3: Create a new file and directory

Code:

n file dir/

Motivation: Creating new files and directories is a common task in file management. With the “clifm” command, you can create new files and directories directly from the command line interface, saving time and effort.

Explanation: The “n” option in the “clifm” command is used to create new files and directories. After specifying the option, you can provide the names of the files and directories you want to create.

Example output: Running the command “n file dir/” will create a new file named “file” and a new directory named “dir” in the current working directory.

Use case 4: Search for PDF files in the current directory

Code:

/*.pdf

Motivation: Searching for specific files in a large directory can be difficult and time-consuming. The “clifm” command provides a search feature that allows users to quickly locate files based on specific criteria.

Explanation: To search for files in CliFM, you can enter a search pattern. In this example, “/*.pdf” is used to search for PDF files in the current directory. The asterisk represents any characters before the “.pdf” extension.

Example output: CliFM will display a list of all the PDF files found in the current directory.

Use case 5: Select all PNG files in the current directory

Code:

s *.png

Motivation: When dealing with a large number of files, selecting specific files for further actions can be time-consuming. The “clifm” command provides a selection feature that allows users to efficiently select files based on specific criteria.

Explanation: To select files in CliFM, you can use the “s” option followed by a search pattern. In this example, “*.png” is used to select all PNG files in the current directory.

Example output: CliFM will select all the PNG files found in the current directory.

Use case 6: Remove previously selected files

Code:

r sel

Motivation: Removing files is a common task in file management. The “clifm” command allows users to remove files or directories directly from the command line interface, providing a convenient way to delete unwanted files.

Explanation: The “r” option in the “clifm” command is used to remove files or directories. By specifying “sel” after the option, previously selected files will be removed. To move files to the recycle bin instead of deleting them permanently, you can use the “t” option.

Example output: Running the command “r sel” will remove all previously selected files from the current directory.

Use case 7: Display detailed help

Code:

?

Motivation: Having access to detailed help documentation is crucial when using a command-line tool. The “clifm” command provides a convenient way to access detailed help information directly from the command line interface.

Explanation: To display detailed help information in CliFM, you can enter the question mark symbol “?”.

Example output: CliFM will display detailed help information, including the available options, commands, and their descriptions.

Use case 8: Exit CliFM

Code:

q

Motivation: Exiting from CliFM is necessary when you have completed your file management tasks and no longer need to use the file manager. Knowing how to exit the file manager will help you close the program safely.

Explanation: To exit CliFM, you can enter the “q” command.

Example output: CliFM will close, and you will return to the command line interface.

Conclusion

The “clifm” command provides a powerful and convenient way to navigate, manage, and interact with files and directories using the command line interface. By following the examples provided in this article, you can effectively utilize the features and options of the “clifm” command and improve your file management workflow.