- A
bash script.sh
Why wrong: Running a script with bash does not make it executable; it simply passes the script as an argument to the bash interpreter.
- B
chmod 755 script.sh
chmod 755 sets permissions to rwxr-xr-x, making the script executable for everyone, which is a valid way to make it executable.
- C
. script.sh
Why wrong: Sourcing a script with . (dot) does not change file permissions; it reads and executes the script in the current shell.
- D
chmod u+x script.sh
chmod u+x adds execute permission only for the owner, but the exam expects methods that make the script executable for all users (like 755 or +x); therefore it is not considered correct here.
- E
chmod +x script.sh
Why wrong: chmod +x adds execute permission for all users, making the script executable, and is one of the two correct answers.
Making Scripts Executable — Using chmod 755 or chmod +x | Red Hat Certified System Administrator Explained
This EX200 practice question tests your understanding of create simple shell scripts. Match the stated requirement to the specific cloud service, access model, or configuration option — many options are valid in isolation but not for this scenario. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Which TWO of the following are valid ways to make a shell script executable?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
chmod 755 script.sh
Options B and D are both valid ways to make a shell script executable. Option B uses numeric mode to set execute permission for the owner, while option D uses symbolic mode to add execute for the owner only. Option E is also valid but is not one of the two answers required by the question.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
bash script.sh
Why it's wrong here
Running a script with bash does not make it executable; it simply passes the script as an argument to the bash interpreter.
- ✓
chmod 755 script.sh
Why this is correct
chmod 755 sets permissions to rwxr-xr-x, making the script executable for everyone, which is a valid way to make it executable.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
. script.sh
Why it's wrong here
Sourcing a script with . (dot) does not change file permissions; it reads and executes the script in the current shell.
- ✓
chmod u+x script.sh
Why this is correct
chmod u+x adds execute permission only for the owner, but the exam expects methods that make the script executable for all users (like 755 or +x); therefore it is not considered correct here.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
chmod +x script.sh
Why it's wrong here
chmod +x adds execute permission for all users, making the script executable, and is one of the two correct answers.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Candidates often think that 'chmod +x' is the only symbolic way, but 'chmod u+x' is also correct. The question requires two answers, and both B and D are valid.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
The `chmod` command modifies the file's inode metadata, specifically the permission bits stored in the file's mode field. When a script has execute permission, the kernel reads the shebang line (e.g., `#!/bin/bash`) to determine the interpreter, then invokes it with the script as an argument. In real-world scenarios, using `chmod +x` (option E) is common for adding execute permission to all users, while `chmod 755` (option B) ensures a consistent permission set for shared scripts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the EX200 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
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Create simple shell scripts — study guide chapter
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this EX200 question test?
Create simple shell scripts — This question tests Create simple shell scripts — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: chmod 755 script.sh — Options B and D are both valid ways to make a shell script executable. Option B uses numeric mode to set execute permission for the owner, while option D uses symbolic mode to add execute for the owner only. Option E is also valid but is not one of the two answers required by the question.
What should I do if I get this EX200 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jul 4, 2026
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