[SOLVED] How to evoke Ruby?

grumpyskeptic · 04-21-2018, 03:41 AM

My OS is Linux Mint 17.3 Rosa Cinnamon. The computer tells me that I already have the Ruby interpreter version 1.9.1 or perhaps version 1.9.3 installed.

But I cannot see how to start it running. It is not to be found anywhere in the desktop menu. When I type in 'ruby' in the console and press return, I just get a new blank line. When I then type in for example '2 + 2' and press return, I get another new blank line.

Thanks.

pan64 · 04-21-2018, 03:49 AM

and what will happen if you enter:
2+2=

grumpyskeptic · 04-21-2018, 03:57 AM

In the console I typed in 'ruby' return, then typed in '2+2=' return and it responded:

"-:1: syntax error, unexpected '=', expecting $end"

So is that Ruby?

Thanks.

Edit/update: a web-search indicates that it is indeed Ruby.

Is is customary to use an IDE for Ruby? Which is the most popular one for Ruby when using Linux? Thanks again.

pan64 · 04-21-2018, 04:22 AM

yes, that is ruby.
you might want to start here: https://www.tutorialspoint.com/ruby/index.htm, or here: https://www.ruby-lang.org/en/documentation/quickstart/

grumpyskeptic · 04-21-2018, 11:02 AM

Thanks.

It seems to be better to type 'irb' in the console rather than 'ruby'.

This https://www.ruby-lang.org/en/documentation/quickstart/ gives a 20 minute introduction to Ruby.

pan64 · 04-21-2018, 12:03 PM

Glad to help you.
If you really want to say thanks just click on yes.