Directory Structures in DOS When you create a subdirectory within an existing directory, what is this hierarchical arrangement called in DOS terminology?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Nesting

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Operating systems organize files in hierarchical directory trees. Creating folders inside other folders establishes a parent–child relationship, which has a specific term in file-system vocabulary.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • DOS uses a tree-structured directory model.
  • Commands like MD (or MKDIR) create directories.
  • Subdirectories can be created within other directories to organize data.


Concept / Approach:
When a directory is placed within another, it is said to be “nested.” This reflects the hierarchical nesting of structures from root (e.g., C:\) down to deeper levels (e.g., C:\DATA\PROJECTS\2025).


Step-by-Step Solution:
Use MD PARENT to create a parent directory.Use MD PARENT\CHILD to create a subdirectory inside PARENT.This arrangement is called nesting because CHILD is nested within PARENT.


Verification / Alternative check:
Run TREE or DIR /S to visualize that subfolders are contained under their parent, confirming the nested hierarchy.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Directing, making, and backing (Options A/B/C) are not standard DOS terms describing this hierarchy.“None of the above” is incorrect because “nesting” is the accepted term.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing the act (creating a subdirectory) with the term that describes the relationship (nesting).
  • Using flat directory structures that become hard to manage; nesting improves organization when used judiciously.


Final Answer:
Nesting

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