Paths are used to locate files and directories in Linux.
1. Absolute Path
An absolute path starts from the root directory:
/
It shows the complete location of a file or folder.
Example
/home/aryan/projects/app.py
This path works from anywhere in the system.
2. Relative Path
A relative path starts from the current directory.
It does NOT start with /.
Example
Current directory:
/home/aryan
Command:
cd projects
Linux understands:
/home/aryan/projects
Special Symbols
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| . | Current directory |
| .. | Parent directory |
| ~ | Home directory |
Examples
Current Directory
./script.sh
Parent Directory
cd ..
Home Directory
cd ~
Difference Table
| Absolute Path | Relative Path |
|---|---|
| Starts with / | Does not start with / |
| Full location | Based on current location |
| Works everywhere | Depends on current directory |
| Longer | Shorter |
Real-World Example
Current directory:
/var/log
Relative Path
cd nginx
Absolute Path
cd /var/log/nginx
Both go to same directory.
Easy Trick
- Absolute Path = Full address
- Relative Path = Nearby shortcut