To clarify, this article addresses the man and tldr commands within the Linux environment. While man pages are thorough, they can feel overwhelming for newcomers. Alternatively, the tldr command offers concise, easy-to-follow summaries of Linux commands.
This guide will explore what tldr is, how to utilize it, and why it may be a more user-friendly option compared to the classic man command.
Understanding the Man Command
The man command, short for manual, serves as the standard method for accessing command documentation in Unix-like systems. Executing man followed by a command name retrieves the manual page associated with that command, dispensing detailed insights regarding its functions, options, and examples.
For instance, entering the following command gives a comprehensive overview of the ls command:
This action opens a lengthy man page displaying all available options, organized under various sections such as NAME, SYNOPSIS, DESCRIPTION, OPTIONS, and EXAMPLES. While this structure aids in navigation, the extensive content can be daunting.
While the man command provides valuable information for experienced users, it may be overwhelming for beginners and even some intermediate users due to the volume of information presented.
What Exactly is Tldr?
tldr, which stands for “too long; didn’t read,”is an internet colloquialism used to summarize lengthy texts. Unlike traditional man pages, tldr pages emphasize the most practical options, complemented by straightforward, real-world examples.
For example, when executing tldr followed by ls in your terminal, the tldr command presents a brief summary of the ls command, including its most frequently used options:
As illustrated, tldr pages are concise and focused, making it simpler for new users to comprehend and effectively use commands.
Getting Started with Tldr
To easily access tldr pages, you need to install a compatible client. The primary client for tldr is Node.js, which is the original client for the tldr initiative. For additional client options across various platforms, consult the TLDR clients wiki page.
Node.js can be installed via the package manager suited to your Linux distribution. For instance, on Debian-based systems like Linux Mint or Ubuntu, use the following command:
Once Node.js and its package manager npm are installed, you can globally set up the tldr client using this command:
If you prefer a Snap package, you can install tldr by running:
Post-installation, the tldr client allows you to view simplified and easy-to-understand command-line manual pages. For example, to access a brief overview of the tar command, simply type:
You can also search for commands using the --search option with keywords:
Additionally, listing all available commands can be done with the -l option:
By simply entering tldr in your terminal, you can explore all available options for the tldr command:
If a web-based option suits you better, the official tldr website provides similar content formatted for browsing. It includes features such as a search bar with auto-suggestions as well as labels indicating whether commands are specific to Linux or macOS.
Moreover, each help page links back to its source on GitHub, where you can propose modifications or enhancements using GitHub’s built-in tools—no extensive Git knowledge is required.
The Advantages of Tldr Over Man
Tldr pages are crafted for straightforward reading and understanding. They eliminate unnecessary complexities and focus solely on the essential information needed to effectively use a command.
In contrast to man pages, which often delve into every conceivable option and detail, tldr pages highlight practical use cases. These practical examples demonstrate how to implement commands in real-world contexts, making it easier to grasp the concepts presented.
Tldr is also platform-agnostic, compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, enhancing its utility across diverse environments.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a novice eager to get started or an expert seeking a quick recap, tldr is a valuable resource to add to your toolkit.
Nonetheless, keep in mind that the tldr command should not fully replace man pages. For a comprehensive and technical understanding, traditional manual pages continue to serve as vital reference materials.
Image credit: Unsplash. All modifications and screenshots by Haroon Javed.