Terminal
A text-based interface where you type commands to control your computer, install packages, run scripts, and manage files.
What is Terminal?
Terminal is a text-based interface where you type commands to control your computer instead of clicking through menus and windows.
It's built into every operating system (Terminal on Mac, Command Prompt or PowerShell on Windows, various shells on Linux) and gives you direct access to install packages, run scripts, manage files, and control development tools.
Most builders use it daily for Git commands, installing dependencies with npm or pip, running local servers, and deploying code. It's faster than clicking through GUIs once you know a few basic commands like cd (change directory), ls (list files), and mkdir (make directory).
Free and built into your OS. Popular alternatives include iTerm2 for Mac and Windows Terminal which add features like split panes and better customization.
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How Vibe Coders Use Terminal
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