Quick definition · 2 min Coding term

CLI

A CLI (command-line interface) lets you control software by typing commands instead of clicking buttons.

Think of it like

Texting a computer instead of using its menus. Less pretty, far more powerful once you know the words.

Example

You type npm install in a CLI to add a package, rather than hunting through a graphical menu.

Why it matters

Most dev and AI tools are driven from a CLI. It looks intimidating but it is just typed instructions.

Where you’ll see it
TerminalPowerShellVS Code
Next step A friendly start: Shell Scripting explained → What those typed commands actually do.
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