A very simple tip for all Linux users out there, if you have a long command which you need to type occasionally, or you have a one off command you think may be helpful, instead of having to type it out all of the time you could very easily add it to a script.
For example this command
ping 209.85.147.103 | while read pong; do echo "$(date +%F_%T) -- $pong"; done
To save me typing it out repeatedly, after you have the line written out press CTRL-x then CTRL-e. This will load your default editor** and there is your command. Then you can add your #!shell of choice at the top, save the file and there you have a simple script.
**If you don't have an editor set in your profile then you will need to set it.
I am always interested in feedback so please feel free to add any comments, or you can mail me here. If you would like to submit a quick tip with full credit and links back to your site then also feel free to contact me.