Fzf: a command-line fuzzy finder

The terminal is essential for every Linux user. Enhancing its functionality can lead to a more efficient workflow. One significant enhancement is fzf, a command-line fuzzy finder. This tool allows you to search through large datasets quickly, making it easier to manage files and commands.

What is fzf?

Fzf stands for "fuzzy finder," and it helps you locate files, commands, and text with simple key-presses. The matches do not have to be perfect, allowing for a broader search capability. For instance, if you have a directory with hundreds of files, you can type part of the filename to see matches immediately.

Essentially, fzf scans through a list of items—whether they are filenames, command history, or processes—filtering and narrowing down the results in real-time. This feature is especially invaluable for busy developers, system administrators, or anyone who relies on the command line daily.

Installing fzf

To start using fzf, you need to install it on your system. The installation process is straightforward.

Debian-based distros

sudo apt install fzf

Fedora-based distros

sudo dnf install fzf

Installing it from Github

(not recommended if it's already in your official distribution repos)

git clone --depth 1 https://github.com/junegunn/fzf.git ~/.fzf 

~/.fzf/install

After the installation, you may need to restart your terminal or source your shell configuration files to activate fzf.

Using fzf in the Terminal

Using fzf is easy and intuitive once installed. Here are some common use cases.

Searching for Files

To search for files in a directory, navigate to your desired location and execute:

ls | fzf

This command lists all files and pipes that list into fzf.

You can start typing to dynamically filter results.

Press Enter, and your selected filename is returned.

For instance, if you have 1,000 files and type "report", fzf instantly shows matching filenames.

Command History Search

Fzf’s ability to search through command history is powerful. You can retrieve and filter your command history with:

history | fzf

This lets you find and execute past commands quickly. For example, if you entered dozens of commands during a session, you can remember only part of the command's name and let fzf do the rest.

Piping fzf with Other Commands

One of the best features of fzf is its ability to work with other commands using piping. This extends its functionality significantly. Here are some examples:

File manipulation (copying or moving files)

You can combine fzf with commands like `cp` or `mv` to manipulate files efficiently.

For instance, to copy a file from one location to another:

cp "$(find . -type f | fzf)" /target/directory/

This command lists all files in the current directory and its subdirectories, filtering them through fzf. Once you select a file, it will be copied to the specified target directory.

Filtering Process List

You can also filter through running processes with fzf.

Use the following command to find and kill a process:

ps aux | fzf | awk '{print $2}' | xargs kill

Here, you’ll see a list of all running processes, select the one you want to terminate, and pass its PID to the `kill` command through `xargs`.

Search Through Git Branches

If you work with Git, you can search for branches quickly:

git branch | fzf

This command lists all Git branches in your repository. Once selected, you can check it out with additional commands:

git checkout $(git branch | fzf)

This makes switching branches faster, especially in projects with many branches.

Advanced Customization Options

Fzf supports various options for customization. Some useful command-line flags include:

• `--height`: Set the height of the fzf menu.

• `--multi`: Enable multi-selection (hold the Ctrl key while selecting items).

• `--preview`: Show a preview window for selected items.

  
  

For example, to display file contents in a preview window:

ls | fzf --preview 'cat {}'`

This command shows the contents of the selected file in a preview window while you navigate the file list.

Power Up Your Terminal Experience

Fzf is an excellent command-line tool that enhances your ability to navigate and utilize the terminal effectively. Its capability to filter files, command history, and process lists, combined with its ability to pipe into other commands, makes it essential for any Linux user.

Whether you are searching for files, managing Git branches, or refining your command history, fzf provides a fast and intuitive solution. Incorporating fzf into your daily routine can significantly boost your workflow and productivity in the command-line environment.

There are no limits with what you can do fzf.

If you're familiar with bash scripting you can even write a simple file manager for your terminal that is using fzf. The internet is full of similar examples.

Start experimenting with fzf today and discover how it can transform your terminal experience!