Day 1: Intro to the Unix shell

• Set up your computer. Follow instructions for the Software Carpentry Lesson The Unix Shell. Make sure you downloaded the data set, we will be using it during lecture.
• Read the episode “Introducing the Shell”
• Answer the following questions:
  • What is a command shell?
  • Why would I use the command shell?
  • Explain how the shell relates to the keyboard, the screen, the operating system, and users’ programs.
  • Explain when and why command-line interfaces should be used instead of graphical interfaces.