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mkdir MacOS Command Guide

The “mkdir” command in MacOS allows users to create directories or folders in the file system. This command is used to organize files and folders efficiently. By specifying the directory name after the command, users can create a new directory within the current working directory. Additionally, users can use options such as “-p” to create parent directories as needed and “-v” to display a message for each directory created. With the mkdir command, users can easily manage their file system and keep their files organized.

mkdir Syntax:

Terminal window
mkdir [option] [directory]

Options:

OptionDescription
-pCreate parent directories as needed
-vDisplay a message for each created directory
-m modeSet permissions for the created directory

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
directoryThe name of the directory to be created

mkdir Command Samples:

Create a New Directory

Terminal window
mkdir new_directory

Creates a new directory named “new_directory”.

Create Multiple Directories at Once

Terminal window
mkdir dir1 dir2 dir3

Creates three directories named “dir1”, “dir2”, and “dir3” simultaneously.

Create Nested Directories

Terminal window
mkdir -p parent_directory/child_directory

Creates a parent directory and a child directory within it in a single command.

Create a Directory with Specific Permissions

Terminal window
mkdir -m 755 restricted_directory

Creates a directory named “restricted_directory” with specific permission settings (755 in this case).

Create a Directory with Specified Path

Terminal window
mkdir /path/to/new_directory

Creates a new directory with the specified full path “/path/to/new_directory”.

Create a Directory with an Environment Variable

Terminal window
mkdir $HOME/my_folder

Creates a directory named “my_folder” in the user’s home directory using the $HOME environment variable.

Create Hidden Directory

Terminal window
mkdir .hidden_folder

Creates a hidden directory named “.hidden_folder”.

mkdir FAQ:

How do I use mkdir in MacOS?

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

Terminal window
mkdir new_directory

What are some common options for the mkdir command in MacOS?

Some common options for the mkdir command in MacOS include:

Terminal window
mkdir -p path/to/directory

How can I create multiple directories at once with mkdir in MacOS?

To create multiple directories at once with mkdir in MacOS, you can use the following command:

Terminal window
mkdir directory1 directory2 directory3

Is it possible to set permissions for a new directory created with mkdir in MacOS?

Yes, you can set permissions for a new directory created with mkdir in MacOS using the following command:

Terminal window
mkdir -m 755 new_directory

How can I create a directory inside another directory using mkdir in MacOS?

To create a directory inside another directory using mkdir in MacOS, you can specify the full path of the new directory like this:

Terminal window
mkdir path/to/parent_directory/new_directory

Can I create a nested directory structure with a single command using mkdir in MacOS?

Yes, you can create a nested directory structure with a single command using mkdir in MacOS by using the -p option like this:

Terminal window
mkdir -p path/to/nested/directory

Applications of the mkdir command

  • Creating a new directory
  • Creating multiple directories at once
  • Specifying the permission mode of the newly created directory
  • Creating a directory within another directory (nested directories)
  • Creating parent directories along with the specified directory (mkdir -p option)
  • Creating directories with specific names or paths