Packt

Advanced Shell Scripting: Automation & Text Processing

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Packt

Advanced Shell Scripting: Automation & Text Processing

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

9 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Build and automate advanced shell scripts using functions, logic, and user interfaces

  • Filter and process data using grep, sed, awk, and regular expressions

  • Apply scripting techniques to perform mathematical operations and streamline workflows

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Recently updated!

August 2026

Assessments

10 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the The Ultimate Linux Shell Scripting Guide Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 10 modules in this course

This module introduces the foundational concepts of Bash shell scripting, including working with variables, arrays, tests, loops, and subshells. Learners will gain hands-on experience creating scripts for automation, handling user input, and managing exit codes. Practical labs reinforce skills in writing, modifying, and troubleshooting basic shell scripts.

What's included

1 video14 readings1 assignment

This module introduces powerful text processing tools in Unix-like systems, focusing on using grep, sed, and regular expressions for searching, filtering, and editing text files. Learners will practice real-world scenarios such as modifying documents, performing substitutions, and automating repetitive tasks. By the end, you'll be able to efficiently manipulate and extract information from large text datasets.

What's included

1 video14 readings1 assignment

This module introduces the use of functions in shell scripting, emphasizing how to organize reusable code and create function libraries for efficient script maintenance. Learners will explore practical techniques for defining, calling, and passing values with functions, culminating in a hands-on project utilizing external APIs.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment

This module introduces methods for performing both integer and floating point mathematical operations within various operating system shells. Learners will explore the use of expressions, variables, and utilities like expr, echo, and bc to execute calculations in command-line and scripting contexts. Practical tips for handling number formats and advanced functions are also provided.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment

This module introduces techniques for automating shell scripts using here documents and the expect tool. Learners will discover how to generate dynamic script content, incorporate functions, and automate interactive responses, while considering security implications in automation workflows.

What's included

1 video4 readings1 assignment

This module introduces learners to automating image processing tasks using ImageMagick's command-line tools. You will explore how to convert formats, resize images, extract metadata, and efficiently batch-process images with shell scripting. Practical demonstrations will help you streamline repetitive graphics tasks without relying on graphical interfaces.

What's included

1 video2 readings1 assignment

This module introduces the fundamentals of using awk for text processing and automation in Unix-like environments. Learners will explore how to integrate awk into shell scripts, utilize patterns and actions for data extraction, and enhance text searches with regular expressions. Practical examples include parsing system files and webserver logs to extract meaningful information.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment

This module delves into advanced awk scripting techniques, including the use of conditionals, loops, arrays, and floating point operations for powerful data processing. Learners will gain hands-on experience automating tasks and manipulating complex datasets within shell environments. Real-world scenarios, such as system compatibility checks and language data handling, are explored to solidify practical skills.

What's included

1 video3 readings1 assignment

This module introduces techniques for enhancing shell scripts with both graphical and text-based user interfaces using yad, dialog, and Xdialog. Learners will explore how to create interactive forms, drop-down lists, and GUI front-ends for common utilities, as well as automate interface selection based on system environment. Practical examples demonstrate how to streamline workflows and improve user experience in shell scripting.

What's included

1 video7 readings1 assignment

This module introduces the use of getopts for handling command-line options in shell scripts, comparing it with getopt, and demonstrates practical applications through real-world scripting examples. Learners will gain hands-on experience in building flexible and user-friendly command-line utilities.

What's included

1 video2 readings1 assignment

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