Linux Basic Commands: clear | OpenPath Education

Linux provides a set of powerful and commonly used commands to interact with the system efficiently. The `cd` command is used to change directories, while `ls` lists the contents of a directory. To clear the terminal screen, the `clear` command is used. The `mkdir` command helps create new folders, and `pwd` shows the current working directory. The `rm` command is used to remove files or directories, and `touch` is used to create empty files. To edit or view text files directly in the terminal, `vi` is a powerful editor. The `/` symbol represents the root directory, which is the top level of the Linux filesystem. To manage users, `adduser` is used to create a new user, and `userdel` is used to delete an existing one. The `history` command displays a list of previously executed commands, allowing users to track or reuse them easily. These commands form the foundation for working effectively in a Linux environment.

11. clear

`clear` Command in Linux

The clear command is used to clear the terminal screen.
It doesn’t delete files or commands — it just makes your terminal window look clean.

🔹 Syntax:

clear

🔹 Example:

Before:

$ ls
bin sbin root sys etc home
$ pwd
/home/ashwin
$ clear

After:
👉 All the previous output is cleared, and you’re left with a fresh terminal prompt.

🔹 Shortcut Alternative:

Instead of typing clear, you can also press:

Ctrl + L

👉 This also clears the screen (works in most terminals).

🔹 Important Note:

It does not delete history. You can still scroll up with the mouse or scroll bar to see old commands/output.
It’s purely for visual clarity.