Linux - How do you use the shell

To use the shell you simply type commands. A command is a computer program, which is built to perform a specific task. Examples of commands include:

ls
clear
cal
date

If your Linux system is booted into a text mode, you can start using the shell as soon as you log in. If you started in a graphical mode (GUI), such as the Gnome desktop or Kde desktop, you can open a shell by going to Applications >> Accessories >> Terminal.

Using Linux Terminal

Using The Terminal

A Linux terminal provides a means by which to allow you to easily interact with your shell such as Bash. A shell is nothing but a program that interprets and executes the commands that you type at a command line prompt. When you start GNOME or KDE or X Windows Terminal, the application starts the default shell that is specified in your system account. You can switch to a different shell at any time. In this tutorial, you are going to use GNOME terminal.
 

Configuring The Gnome Terminal Program

Linux Terminal Profiles

The gnome-terminal program is fully configurable. You can define profiles which set the following options for you:

  • Foreground and background color.
  • Font size and type (family).
  • Windows title and command
  • Scrollback buffer.
  • And much more.

How Do I Edit A Profile

To edit a profile:

  • Select Edit > Current Profile
  • Select the profile you want to edit, then click Edit.

Source: https://bash.cyberciti.biz/guide/But_how_do_you_use_the_shell