4 Easy Methods to List Only Directories in Linux 

Written by

Ojash

Reviewed by

Akshat

Last updated: October 15, 2023

Expert verified

When it comes to managing files in a Linux environment, mastering the art of listing only directories is a game-changer. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux enthusiast or just starting your journey, understanding the significance of directory listing and its benefits is crucial. By effortlessly identifying and organizing directories, you gain greater control over your file system, saving valuable time and effort. In this guide, I will explore different methods to list only directories in Linux and best practices to list directories.

How to List Only Directories in Linux

To list only directories in Linux, you can use the ls command with the -d option to display directories within the current location. The find command with the -type d option allows you to search for directories in the current directory and its subdirectories. The tree command provides a visual representation of the directory structure, while the du command can list directories with their sizes.

1. ls Command with the -d Option

The ls command is a versatile tool in Linux that allows you to list files and directories. By using the -d option, you can modify its behavior to display only directories. This method is perfect when you want a quick overview of the directories within your current location, excluding any files or subdirectories. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Terminal.

2. Type the following command:

<strong>ls -d */</strong>

3. Press Enter to execute the command. The command will list all the directories within the current directory, excluding any files or subdirectories.

2. find Command

The find command is a powerful tool designed for searching files and directories based on various criteria. When it comes to listing directories, you can leverage the find command by specifying the -type d option. This method enables you to search for directories within the current directory and its subdirectories. Here’s how to use it to list directories:

1. Open the command prompt and type the following command:

<strong>find -type d</strong>

2. This command instructs the find command to search for directories (-type d) within the current directory and its subdirectories.

3. Tree Command

The tree command provides a visual representation of the directory structure. It will display a tree-like structure with only directories, omitting files. It can be a helpful tool to grasp the hierarchy and relationships between directories quickly. To list directories using a tree, follow these steps:

1. Launch your Terminal window and execute the following command:

<strong>tree -d</strong>

2. The tree command will display a tree-like structure with only directories, omitting files.

4. du Command

The du command is primarily used to determine the disk usage of files and directories. However, it can also be employed to list directories along with their sizes. To achieve this, follow these steps:

1. Access your command window and enter the following command:

<strong>du -h --max-depth=1 | grep -E '^[0-9.]+[GMK]?\s+\.\/'</strong>

2. This command uses du to display the sizes of directories (-h for human-readable format) within the current directory. The --max-depth=1 flag limits the listing to the immediate subdirectories, and grep filters the output to show only directories. The result will be a list of directories with their corresponding sizes.

5 Best Practices for Listing Only Directories

Efficiently listing directories in Linux is crucial for effective file management. Adopting the following best practices will streamline your workflow and enhance your directory listing process. Implement these five practices to optimize your file organization and boost your productivity:

1. 🛠️ Choose the Right Command and Options: To list only directories in Linux, it is important to use the appropriate command and options. For instance, utilizing the ls -d */ command allows you to list directories using the ls command. Similarly, using find -type d enables you to find and list directories recursively. Additionally, the tree -d command provides a tree-like structure view of directories. Selecting the correct command and options ensures accurate and efficient directory listings, saving you time and effort.
2. 🔍 Consider Recursive Listing for Subdirectories: When dealing with nested directories, consider employing recursive listing options such as -R with the ls command or -type d with the find command. By doing so, you can list directories within subdirectories, providing a comprehensive view of your directory structure. Recursive listing simplifies navigation, enabling you to easily locate and manage directories, even in complex directory hierarchies.
3. 🔧 Customize Output for Better Analysis: Tailor the output of directory listings to suit your specific requirements. Make use of additional flags and options to display detailed information, such as permissions (-l), sizes (-h), or sorting by size (--sort=size). Customizing the output allows you to gain deeper insights into your directory structure, facilitating informed decision-making and efficient file management.
4. 🖥️ Graphical Tools for User-Friendly Experience: While command-line tools offer power and flexibility, graphical file managers provide a user-friendly interface for listing and managing directories. Tools like Nautilus, Dolphin, or Thunar offer visual representations, drag-and-drop functionality, and intuitive features that simplify directory listing tasks. These graphical tools enhance the user experience and enable you to efficiently navigate and organize directories through a visually appealing and intuitive interface.
5. 🔒 Apply Best Security Practices: Ensure that you have appropriate permissions and access rights to list directories. When working with sensitive data, exercise caution and follow security best practices to protect your system. Regularly update and patch your Linux distribution, employ strong passwords, and implement access controls to prevent unauthorized access to your directories. By prioritizing security, you can safeguard your files and maintain the integrity of your directory listings.

In Conclusion

In this article, I have discussed various methods to list only directories in Linux, including the usage of commands like ls, find, tree, and du. Additionally, I have highlighted the best practices for directory listing, by implementing these best practices, you can optimize your file management, improve efficiency, and have better control over your Linux system.

To further enhance your Linux skills and explore the world of file management, consider exploring these related articles: Mastering File Permissions in Linux, Essential Linux Command Line Tools for Efficient System Administration, and Advanced Directory Management Techniques in Linux. By expanding your knowledge in these areas, you will become a proficient Linux user, capable of harnessing the power of the command line to optimize your file management workflow.

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