File Test Operators

Lesson in the Shell / Bash Roadmap · Stage 17: Bash Operators

Last updated 14 September 2026

What is File Test Operators?

File test operators in Bash are used to check the type and attributes of files. These operators allow you to determine if a file exists, if it's a regular file or a directory, if it's readable, writable, or executable, and other file-related properties. The result of a file test is a boolean value (true or false), which can be used in conditional statements to control the flow of a script.

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Free resources to learn File Test Operators

ArticleFile test operators
ArticleBash Tests
VideoShell Scripting Tutorial for Beginners 6 - File test operators

File Test Operators: common questions

Can I learn File Test Operators in Hindi?

This lesson is written in English. Once you sign in, open it in the interactive course and ask the AI tutor to explain File Test Operators in Hindi or Hinglish. The tutor answers from this lesson’s own text, so it stays on the syllabus, and it runs on your own Google, OpenAI or Anthropic key.

Is this File Test Operators tutorial for beginners?

It is lesson 87 of 166 in the free Shell / Bash roadmap, in stage 17, Bash Operators. If you are new to Shell / Bash, start from stage 1 and come back here in order; if you already know the earlier stages, this lesson stands on its own.