---
title: Xcode command-line tool reference
framework: xcode
role: article
role_heading: Article
path: xcode/xcode-command-line-tool-reference
---

# Xcode command-line tool reference

Use command-line tools that require you to install Xcode and set the app as the active developer directory.

## Overview

Overview Xcode includes a set of command-line tools that only ship with the app, such as devicectl, simctl, and xcodebuild. You must install and set Xcode as the active developer directory before you can invoke these commands in Terminal. note: For more information on accessing the command-line tools documentation, see Reading UNIX Manual Pages. Automate build and version numbers Build a project Debug a project Edit files Identify and merge changes Inspect result bundles Manage Instruments files Manage scripting definition Manage the interface Manage the Simulator

## See Also

### Essentials

- [Installing the command-line tools](xcode/installing-the-command-line-tools.md)
- [Configuring command-line tools settings](xcode/configuring-command-line-tools-settings.md)