‘.’ and ‘..’ in File Systems and Programming In computer file systems and programming, ‘.’ and ‘..’ are special symbols or directories that play a crucial role in organizing and navigating files and directories. ‘.’ (Dot) * Represents the current directory in which the command or file is being executed. * It is a shortcut that simplifies navigation within the current directory. * When used in a command, ‘.’ refers to the current directory as the source or destination. ‘..’ (Double Dot) * Represents the parent directory of the current directory. * It is used to move up one level in the directory hierarchy. * When used in a command, ‘..’ refers to the parent directory as the source or destination. Examples in File Systems: * To view the contents of the current directory, type `ls .` * To move one level up in the directory hierarchy, type `cd ..` * To copy a file from the current directory to the parent directory, type `cp myfile ..` Examples in Programming: * In Python, `os.path.abspath(‘.’)` returns the absolute path of the current directory. * In C++, `std::filesystem::current_path()` returns the path to the current working directory. * In Java, `java.nio.file.Paths.get(“.”)` represents the current working directory. Absolute and Relative Paths: * Absolute paths start with the root directory (e.g., `/home/user/Documents`) and specify the exact location of a file or directory. * Relative paths start with ‘.’ or ‘..’ and refer to files or directories relative to the current working directory. Importance of ‘.’ and ‘..’: * Provides easy navigation within directories. * Simplifies commands by allowing shortcuts. * Enhances code readability and maintainability in programming. * Helps in maintaining organized and hierarchical file systems. In summary, ‘.’ and ‘..’ are essential symbols in file systems and programming that allow users and developers to navigate, organize, and access files and directories efficiently and conveniently.The Ellipsis
The Ellipsis The ellipsis, represented by three consecutive periods (…), is a punctuation mark that serves multiple functions in writing. Function 1: Omission Ellipsis often indicates that material has been omitted from a quoted or transcribed text. For example: “` “I swear to uphold the Constitution, to the best of my…” “` Function 2: Pause or Hesitation Ellipsis can create a sense of suspense, anticipation, or uncertainty. It suggests a pause in thought or speech, as if the speaker is searching for the right words: “` “You’re a… you’re a…” she stammered. “` Function 3: Unfinished Thought Ellipsis can also signal an unfinished thought or idea. It implies that there is more to be said, but the speaker or writer chooses to leave it unstated: “` I’m not going to finish this sentence… “` Function 4: Gradual Fading Ellipsis can be used to create a gradual fading away of sound or intensity: “` The crowd’s cheers grew fainter and fainter… “` Function 5: Ellipsis Punctuans In some cases, ellipsis functions as “ellipsis punctuans,” which is used to mark the end of a sentence or thought: “` The essay examines the themes of love, loss, and redemption… “` Rules for Using the Ellipsis * Use spaces around each period. * Use an ellipsis to indicate omissions within a quotation, but place it within square brackets if it is not part of the original text. * Do not use ellipsis to correct grammatical errors or to fill in gaps in a sentence. * Use sparingly to avoid confusing or frustrating readers. Summary The ellipsis is a versatile punctuation mark that can serve various functions, from indicating omissions to creating pauses, suggesting unfinished thoughts, and gradually fading away sounds or intensity. Understanding its different uses allows writers to effectively employ it to enhance clarity and impact in their writing.
Federal Reserve Raises Interest Rates by 50 Basis Points The Federal Reserve announced today a 50 basis point increase in its target federal funds rate, bringing it to a range of 0.75% to 1%. This is the first rate increase since December 2018. The Fed’s decision follows a period of rising inflation and a strengthening labor market. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 7.9% year-over-year in February, the highest level since 1982. The unemployment rate fell to 3.8% in February, close to pre-pandemic levels. In a statement, the Fed said that “inflation remains elevated, reflecting supply and demand imbalances related to the pandemic, higher energy prices, and broader price pressures.” The Fed also noted that “the labor market is strong and inflation is well above the Committee’s 2% objective.” The Fed’s rate hike is intended to slow economic growth and reduce inflation. By making it more expensive for businesses and consumers to borrow money, the Fed hopes to reduce spending and cool the economy. The stock market reacted negatively to the Fed’s announcement, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 falling sharply. Bond yields also rose, as investors priced in the possibility of further rate hikes. The Fed’s decision is a significant step in its efforts to combat inflation. It remains to be seen how effective the rate hike will be in achieving the Fed’s goals.
