cmds

Cmds is an abbreviation of commands, used across computing to denote the set of instructions that can be issued to a software system to perform an operation. In command-line interfaces (CLI), a user types a command consisting of a command name, optional options or flags, and operands. The system parses the command, executes the corresponding routine, and returns output or state changes. Cmds can be built-in to the shell or external programs installed on the system. Examples include Windows command prompt commands like dir and copy, and Unix-like commands like ls, grep, and awk. Options usually begin with a dash or double dash and alter default behavior; operands provide data such as file paths. Flags may be combined or repeated depending on the shell.

In software development, the term cmds might appear as a module, library, or namespace that exposes a collection of commands. A notable instance is the Maya Python library maya.cmds, which exposes many MEL commands through Python call syntax, enabling scripted control of 3D scenes. In games and simulations, a console or developer command system exposes 'cmds' for debugging, configuration, or cheat codes.

Cmds are typically accompanied by documentation that lists available commands, their syntax, required and optional arguments, and examples. They can be used interactively, in scripts, or as part of batch processes. The design and naming convention of cmds varies by system, but the core concept—commands that perform discrete actions—remains constant.