export MacOS Command Guide

The export command in MacOS is used to set environment variables that define the environment of the current shell session. These variables are used by programs to determine various settings and configurations. By using the export command, you can customize your shell environment to suit your needs and preferences. This command is particularly useful for setting variables that are needed by multiple programs or scripts. It allows you to define variables with specific values and make them available to any program that is executed within the shell session. Additionally, the export command can be used to view a list of all currently defined environment variables. Overall, the export command is a versatile tool for managing environment variables and customizing your shell settings in MacOS.

export Syntax:

export [option] [parameter]

Options:

Option	Description
-p	Preserve special file attributes when exporting
-f	Force the export, even if it would overwrite a file

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
filename	The name of the file to export
destination	The destination directory to export the file to

Caution

Exercise caution when using the export command, as it can overwrite existing files if the -f option is used.

export Command Samples:

Export a Variable

export USER_NAME="John Doe"

Sets the variable USER_NAME to the value “John Doe”.

Export a Path

export PATH="/usr/local/bin:$PATH"

Appends /usr/local/bin to the existing PATH variable.

Export a Variable with an Existing Value

export NUMBER=5

Sets the variable NUMBER to the value 5.

Export a Variable without a Value

export FLAG

Creates a variable FLAG with no assigned value.

Export Multiple Variables

export VAR1="Value1" VAR2="Value2"

Sets two variables, VAR1 to “Value1” and VAR2 to “Value2”.

Export a Variable with Special Characters

export GREETING="Hello, \"World\"!"

Sets the variable GREETING to the value Hello, “World”!

Export a Variable for Subsequent Commands

export DEBUG_MODE=1; ./my_script.sh

Exports DEBUG_MODE with a value of 1 for the execution of my_script.sh.

Tip

When using the export command in MacOS, remember that the changes made with export are only applicable to the current session. If you want the exported variable to be available in future sessions, consider adding it to your shell configuration file (e.g., .bashrc or .bash_profile).

export FAQ:

How do I use export in MacOS?

To use the export command in MacOS, execute the following command:

export MY_VAR=value

How do I unset an environment variable using export in MacOS?

To unset an environment variable using export in MacOS, you can do the following:

export -n MY_VAR

How can I list all environment variables in MacOS using export?

To list all environment variables in MacOS using export, you can run the following command:

export

How do I export a variable with a specified scope in MacOS?

To export a variable with a specified scope (local or global) in MacOS, you can use the -g flag:

export -g MY_VAR=value

How do I export a variable without making it an environment variable in MacOS?

To export a variable without making it an environment variable in MacOS, you can use the -l flag:

export -l MY_VAR=value

How do I append a value to an existing variable using export in MacOS?

To append a value to an existing variable using export in MacOS, you can do the following:

export MY_VAR="$MY_VAR:new_value"

Applications of the export command

• Set environment variables
• Customize shell settings
• Define temporary variables for a specific session