cron

Manage and configure cron jobs for automated Linux task scheduling.

1|Updated Jan 31, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ryukyagamilight/terminal-skills --skill cron-ryukyagamilight
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: cron
Source: https://github.com/ryukyagamilight/terminal-skills/tree/main/server/cron
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ryukyagamilight/terminal-skills --skill cron-ryukyagamilight

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies the management of scheduled tasks (cron jobs) on Linux systems, helping you automate routine operations and ensure timely execution of scripts.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Crontab Management: Edit, view, and delete cron jobs for users.
  • Syntax Explanation: Understand cron time formats, special characters, and special time strings.
  • Configuration Guidance: Learn about user crontabs, system crontabs, and the /etc/cron.d directory.
  • Best Practices: Implement robust job execution with script templates, logging, and environment variable handling.
  • Use Case: Automate daily database backups at 2 AM by configuring a cron job that runs a backup script and redirects output to a log file.

Quick Start

Edit the current user's crontab file to add a new scheduled task.

Frequently Asked Questions about cron

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I schedule a Linux cron job for automated task execution?

To schedule a Linux cron job, edit the user crontab file to add a new task using the cron time format syntax. This automates routine operations and ensures timely execution of scripts on Linux systems.

What is the correct cron time format syntax for crontab entries?

The cron time format syntax uses five fields for minute, hour, day of month, month, and day of week. Crontab entries also support special characters and special time strings like @daily to simplify scheduling.

Why is my cron job not working or failing to execute?

Cron job execution failures often stem from missing environment variables or incorrect script paths. Troubleshoot common issues by applying best practices like script templating, logging output redirection, and verifying environment variable handling.

Can I use system crontabs and the /etc/cron.d directory for scheduling?

Yes, you can use system crontabs and the /etc/cron.d directory for scheduling tasks. Configuration guidance covers user crontabs, system crontabs, and /etc/crontab to manage automated jobs across different system contexts.

What's the best way to automate daily database backups using crontab?

The best way to automate daily database backups is by configuring a cron job to run a backup script at a scheduled time like 2 AM. Redirect the script output to a log file for robust execution and monitoring.