Scribd
Upload
27 views4 pages

Shell Script Documentation

The document outlines the structure and requirements for shell script documentation, including sections for script name, purpose, prerequisites, location, execution instructions, inputs and outputs, error handling, exit codes, example run, and additional notes. It provides examples for each section to guide users in documenting their scripts effectively. The format ensures clarity and completeness for users who may need to execute or troubleshoot the scripts.

Uploaded by

jehorod844
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
27 views4 pages

Shell Script Documentation

The document outlines the structure and requirements for shell script documentation, including sections for script name, purpose, prerequisites, location, execution instructions, inputs and outputs, error handling, exit codes, example run, and additional notes. It provides examples for each section to guide users in documenting their scripts effectively. The format ensures clarity and completeness for users who may need to execute or troubleshoot the scripts.

Uploaded by

jehorod844
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Shell Script Documentation

1. Script Name
Provide the name of the script.
Example: backup.sh

2. Purpose
Explain the purpose of the script briefly.
Example:
"This script automates the backup of the /home directory to a designated external drive."

3. Prerequisites
List any tools, software, or configuration needed to execute the script successfully.
Example:

rsync must be installed ( sudo apt install rsync ).


Ensure the external drive is mounted at /mnt/backup .
Requires execute permissions ( chmod +x ).

4. Script Location
Provide the location or repository details where the script is stored.
Example:

Local Path: /home/user/scripts/backup.sh


Repository: GitHub Link

5. How to Execute
Provide step-by-step execution instructions.
Example:
1. Open a terminal.
2. Navigate to the script directory:

cd /home/user/scripts/

3. Check and set execute permissions:

chmod +x backup.sh

4. Execute the script:

./backup.sh

5. Optional: Run with sudo if elevated privileges are required:

sudo ./backup.sh

6. Inputs and Outputs


Clearly specify:

Inputs: Parameters, environment variables, or prompts.


Outputs: Files, logs, or system changes.

Example:

Inputs:
None (or describe arguments if applicable, e.g., ./script.sh [source]
[destination] ).
Outputs:
Backup files created at /mnt/backup/home_backup.tar.gz .
Log stored in /var/log/backup.log .

7. Error Handling and Troubleshooting


Provide common issues and solutions.
Example:
Error: "Command not found."
Solution: Install the required tool using:

sudo apt install rsync

Error: "Permission denied."


Solution: Add execute permissions using:

chmod +x backup.sh

8. Exit Codes
Document the exit codes and their meaning.
Example:

0 - Success.
1 - Error: External drive not mounted.
2 - Error: Insufficient permissions.

9. Example Run
Provide a sample output of the script execution for reference.
Example:

$ ./backup.sh
Backup started...
Creating archive: /mnt/backup/home_backup.tar.gz
Backup completed successfully!

10. Additional Notes


Include any other relevant information.
Example:
"This script is designed for Linux systems only and may not work as expected on macOS or
WSL without modification."
Repeat for Each Script
Follow the steps for all other scripts

You might also like