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Output Redirection: Where Output Goes

Redirect output to files. Or discard it. Control where it goes.

Here's the thing: Redirection controls where output goes. Learn it. Use it.

Redirect to File​

echo "Hello" > file.txt

My take: > redirects to file. Overwrites.

Append to File​

echo "Hello" >> file.txt

My take: >> appends. Doesn't overwrite.

Redirect Input​

command < file.txt

My take: < redirects input. Reads from file.

Redirect Errors​

command 2> error.log
command 2>> error.log

My take: 2> redirects errors. Use it.

Redirect Both​

command > output.log 2>&1

My take: 2>&1 redirects errors to stdout. Use it.

Discard Output​

command > /dev/null
command > /dev/null 2>&1

My take: /dev/null discards. Use it.

Common Patterns​

Log Everything​

script.sh > output.log 2>&1

What's Next?​

Now that you understand redirection, let's talk about Here Documents.

Personal note: Redirection seemed confusing at first. Then I learned it. Now I use it constantly. It's essential. Learn it.