Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible, 3rd Edition

Creating Fun Little Shell Scripts

IN THIS CHAPTER

Sending a message

Getting inspiration

Sending a text

The primary reason for learning to write bash shell scripts is to be able to create your own Linux system utilities. Understanding how to write useful and practical script utilities is important. However, sometimes it helps to do something fun to learn a concept or skill. The scripts in this chapter are not necessarily practical, but they can be lots of fun! And they help solidify script-writing concepts.

Sending a Message

Messages can be sent in many ways in an office or a home environment — text message, e-mail, and even making a phone call. One method, not commonly used any more, is sending a message directly to a fellow system user's terminal. Because this technique is largely unknown, it can be fun to communicate with someone with this method.

This shell script utility helps you to quickly and easily send a message to someone who is logged onto your Linux system. It is a rather simple script, but it can be loads of fun!

Understanding the required functions

For this simple script, only a few functions are required. Several of the commands are common and have been covered in the book. However, a few of the commands have only been touched on, and you may not be familiar with the primary command needed. This section looks at the commands needed to put together this simple, but ...