1.14. The Rest of This Book

As you can probably tell by now, Linux is a fairly substantial topic, and can only be properly digested in small portions. In order to aid this process, and to allow individual readers to focus on the subjects that they find most applicable , I decided to write this book's chapters based on the different kinds of Linux user . These users tend to fall into one of several categories:

• Nonprogrammers , who occasionally want to perform simple tasks like sending and receiving electronic mail, using a spreadsheet, or doing some word processing.

• Shell Users , who use background processing and write small scripts from within a convenient interface.

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• Advanced Nonprogrammers , who use more complex facilities like file stream editors and file processing.

• Advanced Shell Users , who write programs in a high-level command language for performing useful tasks such as automatic backups , monitoring disk usage, and performing software installations.

• Programmers , who write programs in a general-purpose language such as C for speed and efficiency.

• System Programmers , who write programs that require a good knowledge of the underlying computer system, including network communications and advanced file access.

• System Architects , who invent better computer systems. These people provide a vision and a framework for the future.

• System Administrators , who make sure that the computer system runs smoothly and that the users are generally satisfied.

To begin with, read the chapters that interest you the most. Then go back and fill in the gaps when you have the time. If you're unsure of which chapters are most appropriate for your skill level, read the introductory section "About This Book" for some hints.