What Is Unix Shell Function?

Functions enable you to break down the overall functionality of a script into smaller, logical subsections, which can then be called upon to perform their individual tasks when needed. … Using functions to perform repetitive tasks is an excellent way to create code reuse.

What is shell function?

Shell functions are a way to group commands for later execution using a single name for the group. They are executed just like a “regular” command. … If the function reserved word is supplied, the parentheses are optional. The body of the function is the compound command compound-command (see Compound Commands).

How do you create a shell function?

Creating Functions

The name of your function is function_name, and that’s what you will use to call it from elsewhere in your scripts. The function name must be followed by parentheses, followed by a list of commands enclosed within braces.