Glossary Terms will be added to this file with their definitions. Working Directory A working directory is a location in a file system where tasks or operations are carried out. In the context of programs, it refers to the directory in which a program reads from or writes files. In shells, it is the folder in which the shell operates. Shell A program that interacts with the system on your behalf. It operates from a changeable working directory and provides a structure for executing more complex operations, such as piping and output redirection, between commands. It also operates as a full scripting language, allowing users to implement even more complex behavior.