Linux change directory from an executable bash file

Question

I have a file in /usr/bin called code, which contains the following:

cd ~/Documents/Code

However, when I run it by simply executing

$ code

Nothing happens. Why is this, and how can I make code perform as I would like?

If that file is in /usr/bin because it's on the PATH and executable, you can run it in your current shell with . $(which code), but there are better ways to cd, one is mentioned by Jonathon. — Vytenis Bivainis
– Vytenis Bivainis, Commented May 24, 2014 at 19:48
@Vytenis I think you should add this as an alternative answer. Being able to run a script in the current shell is another valid way of doing this. — Jonathon Reinhart
– Jonathon Reinhart, Commented May 24, 2014 at 19:55

Jonathon Reinhart · Accepted Answer · 2014-05-24 19:01:04Z

4

When you run code, a new process is spawned to execute that script. The script changes directories (for his process) and returns. Your original shell's process still has the same working directory. Child processes cannot manipulate the state of their parent.

A better way to accomplish this would be with an alias. Add this to your ~/.bashrc:

alias code='cd ~/Documents/Code'

answered May 24, 2014 at 19:01

Jonathon Reinhart

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Vytenis Bivainis · Accepted Answer · 2014-05-24 20:03:02Z

1

If that file is in /usr/bin because it's on the PATH and executable, you can run it in your current shell with . $(which code) or source $(which code), but there are better ways to cd, one is mentioned by Jonathon.

answered May 24, 2014 at 20:03

Vytenis Bivainis

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