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Zsh

Zsh, Oh My Zsh, Powerlevel10k (Beginner → Pro)

What is Zsh?

Zsh (Z Shell) is a command-line shell — the program that reads your commands and runs them.

Think of it as:

The engine behind your terminal

Why engineers love Zsh:

  • Smarter autocomplete
  • Better scripting than bash
  • Globbing (powerful file matching)
  • Plugins & themes
  • Highly customizable

Most modern Linux & macOS setups prefer Zsh over Bash.

What is Oh My Zsh?

Oh My Zsh is a framework for managing Zsh configuration.

It does NOT replace Zsh. It enhances it.

What it gives you:

  • Easy plugin system
  • Themes
  • Sensible defaults
  • Huge community

Examples of useful plugins:

  • git → git status, shortcuts
  • z → jump to frequent folders
  • sudo → press Esc + Esc to add sudo
  • autosuggestions → command suggestions
  • syntax-highlighting → red/green command hints

Think:

Zsh = shell Oh My Zsh = power kit for the shell

What is Powerlevel10k?

Powerlevel10k (p10k) is a Zsh theme.

But it’s not “just a theme”.

It gives:

  • Extremely fast prompt
  • Git branch + status
  • Exit codes
  • Time, directory, user, host
  • Icons & symbols
  • Fully configurable

Looks like:

➜  ~/project  git:(main ✗)  ❯

Why engineers use it:

  • Instant visual feedback
  • No need to run extra commands
  • Looks professional
  • Saves time