Introduction

Table of Contents

What is this aptitude thing, anyway?
What is a package manager?
What is the apt system?
How can I get aptitude?
Pre-built aptitude packages, or, “what 99% of users should do”
Building aptitude from source code
Tracking and participating in aptitude development
 

“Master, does Emacs possess the Buddha nature?” the novice asked.

“I don't see why not,” replied the master. “It's got bloody well everything else.” Several years later, the novice suddenly achieved enlightenment.

 
 -- John Fouhy

Hello, and welcome to the aptitude user's manual! This introductory section explains what aptitude is and how to get your hands on it; for information on actually using it, please proceed to Chapter 1, Getting started.