---
tags:
  - Linux
  - procedural
---

# Truncate stdout with `cut`

Pass in `-c` to truncate characters or `-b` to truncate bytes.

Return the first three characters of "Thomas":

```sh
echo 'thomas' | cut -c -3
# tho
```

Return "Thomas" minus the first three chracters:

```sh
echo 'thomas' | cut -c 3-
# omas
```