The Unix 'script' Command

This command, available on Mac and Linux, records a shell session. It is especially useful in seeking help from others on mysterious bugs, our focus here.

Key points:

• One invokes the app by simply typing 'script' at the shell prompt. This starts a new shell.
• The app will make a full record of the shell session, showing your keystrokes and the responses to them. If for instance you start an interactive Python session, the entire session will be recorded.
• Execute whatever commands will reproduce the error. Then exit that new shell, by typing 'exit', ctrl-d or whatever you usually use to exit.
• You will be returned to your original shell. A text file 'typescript' will be created, with the record of your shell session. You can e-mail this to whoever you are seeking advice from.