Checking Differences Between Two Files: A Quick Guide 🧐

• When working with files, it’s crucial to compare them to understand the changes made over time. Whether you’re a developer examining code changes or a content creator reviewing document revisions, knowing how to check differences is a valuable skill. In this guide, we’ll explore two methods for comparing files: using the diff command and the vimdiff tool.

Using the diff Command

Step 1: Navigate to the Directory

• Begin by navigating to the directory where your files are located. Open your terminal and use the cd command to change the directory.

• type below command

  `cd /path/to/your/files`
  

Step 2: Execute the diff Command

• Once you’re in the right directory, use the following command to compare two files:

  `diff file1 file2`
  

• This command will display the differences between file1 and file2, providing valuable insights into changes made to the content.

Using vimdiff for a Visual Comparison ⚖️

Step 1: Navigate to the Directory

• Similar to the diff method, start by navigating to the directory containing your files.

   `cd /path/to/your/files`
  

Step 2: Launch vimdiff

`vimdiff file1 file2`

• This will launch Vim with two panels, highlighting the differences between the two files. It’s a powerful way to visualize changes and make decisions based on the content variations.

Conclusion 💡

Choosing between the diff command and vimdiff depends on your preferences and specific use case. The diff command provides a quick overview in the terminal, while vimdiff offers a more visual and interactive experience within the Vim editor.