STDOUT stands for Standard Output and refers to a computer term used to describe the default output stream in a command-line interface (CLI) or shell environment. It is a standard feature in most operating systems that allows the user to see the output of a program or command directly on the screen or terminal.
When a program or command is executed, it typically generates some form of output, such as text, data, or error messages. This output is directed to STDOUT by default, which then displays it on the user's screen or terminal. This stream is usually displayed as a continuous flow of text, hence the term "standard output."
STDOUT plays a crucial role in various contexts, particularly in CLI and shell scripting. It enables users to see the results of their executed commands or programs in real-time, facilitating troubleshooting, debugging, and general interaction with the system. Additionally, STDOUT is often used in conjunction with other streams, such as STDERR (Standard Error), which is used to display error messages separately.
Through the utilization of redirection operators or pipes, users can redirect the output of STDOUT to different locations, such as saving it to a file or sending it as input to another program or command. This flexibility allows for effective manipulation and management of command-line outputs, contributing to the efficiency and versatility of command-line interfaces.
