Sharpen your shell scripting skills with our practical, LPI‑aligned course. You’ll build and refine Linux Bash scripts using variables, logic, loops, functions and AWK. Ideal for accelerating automation skills that are essential in system administration and development roles.
Linux Shell Programming
Streamline Linux tasks with powerful Bash scripting
Over two days, this hands‑on course follows the Linux Professional Institute (LPI) curriculum to teach Bash shell programming. You’ll build real scripts using variables, loops, conditionals, AWK and functions, empowering you to automate tasks and streamline workflows in Linux environments.
Learning objectives
- Write and execute Bash shell scripts
- Use variables and command substitution
- Implement loops and conditional logic
- Create menu‑driven scripts and functions
- Integrate AWK for data processing
- Handle runtime input and user interrupts
What you’ll learn
You’ll learn how to script in a Linux environment through practical, hands-on exercises designed to build real confidence. Starting with foundational commands and progressing to structured scripts using AWK, loops, and functions, this course equips you to automate tasks, streamline processes, and create reliable, adaptable scripts for daily use.
Linux command review
Refresh your knowledge of essential Linux commands used in scripting, including file handling, redirection, and regular expressions. Gain a solid understanding of command-line foundation by revisiting tools such as ls, cp, mv, and grep, equipping you with the confidence to build efficient and reliable shell scripts.
Variables and calculations
Learn to use shell variables effectively for scripting flexibility. You’ll define local and environment variables, handle user input with read, and perform calculations using expr and (( )) notation. These techniques enable adaptable, data-driven scripts that automate tasks with precision and respond dynamically to changing inputs or conditions.
Conditional logic
Explore how to control script behaviour using conditional logic. You’ll work with if statements, the test command, and POSIX-compatible syntax to validate input and manage outcomes. These skills are essential for creating intelligent, responsive scripts that improve automation reliability and adapt to user or environmental conditions.
Loop constructs
Learn to automate repetitive tasks using while, until, and for loops. You’ll practice controlling execution with break and continue and build scripts to process files and generate sequences. Mastering loop constructs enables efficient task automation and reduces manual effort in Linux system management and administration.
What’s included
- Expert instructor-led training over two days
- Practical hands-on lab exercises
- Post-course reference materials
- Interactive trainer support
- Real-world scripting examples
- Small class sizes for personalised support
- Certificate of completion
Key Facts
Ideal for
System administrators, developers, and IT support professionals looking to automate Linux tasks or enhance their scripting abilities.
Prerequisites
Basic Linux command-line knowledge is essential. Prior programming experience is helpful but not required.
Learning experience
Our experienced trainers and interactive labs create a focused, practical environment – so you can put theory into practice from day one.
FAQs
This comprehensive Linux Shell Programming course covers essential scripting techniques, from mastering core commands and automation workflows to integrating error handling and AWK scripting. You’ll engage in practical, instructor-led sessions designed to build real-world scripting capability in a dynamic Linux environment.
How is this course different from a Linux basics course?
A Linux basics course teaches users how to use the operating system, but this course is dedicated entirely to scripting and automation. You'll go beyond simply typing commands by learning how to build, structure and troubleshoot full shell scripts. The focus is on creating real-world solutions using loops, conditionals, and tools like AWK. Whether you're writing menu systems or trapping interrupts, this course provides the scripting expertise needed to automate tasks confidently and consistently in your work environment.
Do I need to know AWK before attending?
No prior AWK experience is required. This course introduces you to the fundamentals of AWK, including its syntax, usage in data filtering, and integration within larger shell scripts. AWK is an important scripting tool for those who manage logs or text files. We’ll walk you through how to create simple AWK programs and demonstrate how they work within the shell. By the end of the course, you’ll be comfortable incorporating AWK into your own scripts to improve the readability and power of your automation tasks.
Will I learn scripting best practices?
Yes, scripting best practices are a key part of this course. You'll learn how to write clean, maintainable code with proper use of variables, quoting, indentation and commenting. We also cover naming conventions, error handling, modular code through functions, and strategies for debugging. These practices ensure that your scripts are reliable, easy to update, and shareable with colleagues. Understanding and applying these principles will set your scripts apart and prepare you for more advanced automation work or team-based development environments.
Does the course prepare me for Linux certifications?
This course is aligned with the LPI certification paths and supports your preparation for Linux Essentials (010-160) and LPIC-1 (101-500 and 102-500) exams. While it does not include the exams themselves, the course offers practical training in many of the shell scripting topics covered in those certifications. Combined with the Linux Introduction and Linux System Administration (LPI) courses, it provides a strong technical foundation. You’ll also gain confidence through hands-on practice, which is essential for exam readiness and day-to-day technical performance.
Can I use the scripts at work immediately?
Absolutely. This course is built around practical applications that you can implement straight away in a live Linux environment. Exercises are based on real-world tasks such as copying files, validating inputs, handling user interaction, and generating reports. You'll leave with a collection of scripts you’ve written and tested during the course, all of which can be adapted for your specific workplace needs. The hands-on approach ensures you're ready to apply what you’ve learned from the moment you return to work.
What our customers say
“Thoroughly enjoyed the course, very informative and a good balance between instruction and practical work.”
Megan, StayAhead Learner - Transport
“Stuart was very good in explaining, and very patient, finding alternative ways to explain concepts where understanding was not grasped on the first attempt.”
Stuart, StayAhead Learner - Assurance Manager - Government
Why study with StayAhead
96% customer satisfaction
We combine experience and passion to deliver training that meets the highest standards
30+ years’ experience
Industry-leading specialists delivering high-impact IT training
Experiential instructor-led training
Courses are delivered by experienced instructors using hands-on, practical live labs