These instructions are for Ubuntu 12.10 running the Unity interface and using Nautilus as the default file browser – this is the default Ubuntu 12.10 configuration.
It may work for other version combinations, but no guarantee is made.
The default settings in the Nautilus file browser prevent you from seeing certain files and folders. These files begin with a period (.) and tend to be configuration files and folders (directories).
The Unix / Linux convention for hiding a file or folder is to prefix the name with a period (.).
Sometimes it is necessary to be able to see them in order to be able to edit them or delete them.
1) Open the Nautilus file browser. The default icon on the Unity Launcher opens your Home folder:
By default, configuration files and folders are not shown:
2) Type Ctrl + H to display hidden files and folders.
NOTE: typing Ctrl + H means: while holding down the Ctrl key, press the H key as though you intend to type it.
DO NOT press the Shift key because Ctrl + Shift + H is different from Ctrl + H.
It does NOT matter if your Caps Lock key is on or off.
Any hidden files or folders will be displayed along with the other files and folders.
NOTE: there may not be any hidden files or folders to display.