The terminal might look intimidating at first, but it’s one of the most powerful tools on Ubuntu. If you’re a beginner making your way into the Linux world, learning a few basic terminal commands will make your experience smoother, faster, and more efficient.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to open the Terminal, 10 essential commands every beginner should know, handy keyboard shortcuts, and a free printable cheat sheet you can keep nearby.
What is the Ubuntu Terminal?
The Ubuntu Terminal is a command-line interface (CLI) that lets you interact with your computer using text commands. While Ubuntu offers a graphical interface for most tasks, the terminal gives you more control and speed, especially for installing apps, managing files, or updating your system.
Learn more about Ubuntu and its versions in our beginner’s guide.
How to Open the Terminal in Ubuntu
There are multiple ways to launch the Terminal:
- Press Ctrl + Alt + T (shortcut)
- Search for “Terminal” in the Activities menu
- Right-click the desktop and select Open Terminal
10 Basic Linux Terminal Commands You Should Know
Here are ten essential commands to get started:
| Command | Description |
| ls | Lists files and folders in the current directory |
| cd | Changes directory (e.g., cd Documents) |
| mkdir | Creates a new directory |
| pwd | Displays the current directory path |
| clear | Clears the terminal screen |
| sudo | Runs a command as superuser (admin) |
| apt update | Updates the package index |
| apt upgrade | Upgrades installed software |
| man | Opens the manual for any command (e.g., man ls) |
| exit | Closes the terminal |
Tip: Always use sudo cautiously—it gives full access to your system.
Need help installing software? Read How to Install Apps on Ubuntu.
Useful Keyboard Shortcuts
| Shortcut | Action |
| Ctrl + Alt + T | Open terminal |
| Ctrl + L | Clear screen (like clear command) |
| Tab | Auto-complete command or folder name |
| Ctrl + C | Cancel running process |
| Up Arrow | Repeat previous command |
Related Guides
- What is Ubuntu? | Linux OS Explained for Beginners
- How to Install Ubuntu | Step-by-Step Guide
- Ubuntu Desktop Tour | Understanding the Interface
- Types of Software Explained Simply
Download: Ubuntu Terminal Cheat Sheet (PDF)
Need a handy reference? Download our printable Ubuntu Terminal Cheat Sheet for beginners:
Download Cheat Sheet – PDF Format (coming soon)
Final Thoughts
The more you use the Ubuntu Terminal, the more confident you’ll become. Start small, experiment with safe commands, and soon you’ll find the terminal to be a powerful ally in your Ubuntu journey.
