Learn to sort lines alphabetically using the GNU sort command and related tools. 16.11.2025 | reading time: 2 min Long lists are easier to scan when they are ordered; on Linux the standard way to alphabetize lines is the `sort` command, a fast tool that reads lines from a file or stdin and writes them in collated order. Quick example Create a simple file and run the command to see the effect: ```bash $ cat staff_list.txt zoe anna mark aaron $ sort staff_list.txt aaron anna mark zoe ``` Tweak the order Do more than the default: use `sort -r` to reverse, `sort -f` to ignore case, `sort -n` for numeric fields, and `LC_ALL=C sort` for bytewise predictable ordering; for field-based sorting combine `-t` and `-k`, and for very large files use `sort -T /tmp -S 50%` to control temporary storage and memory. Nearby tools that help Sorting is often one step in a pipeline: use `uniq` to collapse duplicates after sorting, `cut` to extract columns before sorting, `awk` for complex field extraction or transformation, and `join` or `comm` to compare sorted files. Where to go next Mastering `sort` speeds up log analysis, lists and data cleanup; keep experimenting with options and pipelines, and consider deepening your Linux skills with formal training and certifications such as CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1 via bitsandbytes.academy for exam-focused preparation. Join Bits & Bytes Academy First class LINUX exam preparation. utilities filesystem scripting troubleshooting
