CLI stands for Command Line Interface. It is a text-based interface used to interact with a computer’s operating system or software applications by entering commands as text input. The CLI provides a way to execute tasks, navigate directories, manage files and directories, and run programs or scripts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In contrast to a Graphical User Interface (GUI)<\/a>, which uses visual elements like windows, icons, and menus, the CLI <\/a>requires the user to type in specific commands and follow a structured syntax. This makes it more efficient and powerful for advanced users, system administrators, and developers who need to perform complex or repetitive tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Examples of CLIs include:<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n CLIs are often used for tasks such as system administration, scripting, automation, file management, version control, and software development. While they may have a steeper learning curve compared to GUIs, CLIs offer more flexibility, control, and efficiency for advanced users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Curious about web development but unsure where to begin? HCL GUVI’s Full Stack Development course<\/a> offers a risk-free way to explore the exciting possibilities of full-stack development. Explore the curriculum, and the interactive learning format, and experience the supportive learning environment. Enroll now!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Having understood the fundamentals of Command Line Interface (CLI), let’s learn – how to build a CLI with Node.js.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Ever felt intimidated by command-line interfaces (CLIs)? Don’t worry! Building a simple CLI tool with Node.js is easier than you think. Thanks to a wealth of open-source packages, you can add features like color, animation, and user input with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through creating a basic CLI tool using Node.js. Let’s begin!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Steps to Create a Node.js CLI<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Also Read: 10 Best Node.js Libraries and Packages<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Open a terminal inside your project directory and run npm init -y. This quickly creates an empty npm project without manual configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also Read: How to Install Nodejs on Windows?: A Step-by-Step Guide<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n We’ll use some helpful open-source packages:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can learn more about each package by visiting their official documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s install some open-sourced npm packages required for this project:<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Also Read: Node.JS as Backend: Everything You Need to Know About this Popular Framework<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Create a file named index.js inside your project folder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also Read: NodeJS or Python: Which Backend Technology is Best Suited?<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n We’ll create a single function called greet to welcome the user.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Inside greet:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Now, let\u2019s write the following code inside the index.js file:<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Also Read: Top Technologies to Learn for a JavaScript Backend Developer<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In your terminal, type node index.js to execute the script.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here’s the final output:<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Enroll now and gain the in-demand skills to design, develop, and deploy full-stack web applications. HCL GUVI’s Full Stack Development course<\/a> provides a comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and a supportive learning community to empower you to become a web developer<\/a>. Don’t miss this opportunity to upskill and transform your career \u2013 enroll today!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Command Line Interfaces remain a fundamental tool for developers, sysadmins, and power users alike. Node.js empowers developers to create CLI applications that are fast, efficient, and feature-rich. CLI development with Node.js bridges the gap between traditional terminal-based workflows and modern development practices, enabling seamless integration with web technologies and APIs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Mastering CLI development with Node.js equips developers with the skills needed to thrive in a fast-paced, command-driven world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
How to Build a Command Line Interface with Node.js<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Project Setup<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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2. Initialize npm Project<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Initialize](\"https:\/\/www.guvi.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/1c.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n3. Install Packages<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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npm install figlet\n\nnpm install inquirer\n\nnpm install gradient-string<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n4. Create the Main Script (index.js)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Create](\"https:\/\/www.guvi.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/2c.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n5. Write the Code (index.js)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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import figlet from \"figlet\"; \n\nimport inquirer from \"inquirer\"; \n\nimport gradient from \"gradient-string\"; \n\n\/\/ Declare a variable to store the user's name \n\nlet userName; \n\nconst greet = async () => { \n\n\/\/ Displaying Meghana CLI \n\nfiglet('Meghana CLI', function (err, data) { \n\nconsole.log(data) \n\n}); \n\n\/\/ Wait for 2secs \n\nawait new Promise(resolve => setTimeout(resolve, 2000)); \n\n\/\/ Ask the user's name \n\nconst { name } = await inquirer.prompt({ \n\ntype: \"input\", \n\nname: \"name\", \n\nmessage: \"Enter your name?\"\n\n}); \n\n\/\/ Set the user's name \n\nuserName = name; \n\n\/\/ Print the welcome message \n\nconst msg = `Hello ${userName}!`; \n\nfiglet(msg, (err, data) => { \n\nconsole.log(gradient.pastel.multiline(data)); \n\n}); \n\n} \n\n\/\/ Call the askName function \n\ngreet();<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n![\"Write](\"https:\/\/www.guvi.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/3c.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n6. Run the Application<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Get ready to see the output!<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Output<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Output\"](\"https:\/\/www.guvi.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/4c.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nConclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n