Awk

Awk is a domain-specific programming language designed for text processing and data extraction. It operates on a line-by-line basis, using pattern-action statements to search for patterns in input files and perform specified actions like printing or transforming data. It is particularly effective for processing structured text files such as logs, CSV files, and reports.

Also known as: awk, AWK, gawk, nawk, mawk

Why learn Awk?

Developers should learn Awk for quick command-line text manipulation tasks, such as filtering log files, generating reports, or transforming data formats without writing full scripts. It is ideal for system administrators, data analysts, and developers working in Unix/Linux environments who need efficient tools for ad-hoc data processing and automation of repetitive text-based tasks.

Learning Resources

• docs: GNU Awk User's Guide
• tutorial: Awk Tutorial on Tutorialspoint
• tutorial: Awk in 20 Minutes
• book: The AWK Programming Language Book