Text-based commands are instructions entered into a computer or software program using text. These commands allow users to perform various tasks, such as navigating files, running programs, or managing system settings. They are often used in command-line interfaces, where users type commands instead of using a graphical interface. Common examples of text-based commands include mkdir for creating directories, cd for changing directories, and ls for listing files. These commands are essential for users who prefer a more direct and efficient way to interact with their systems, especially in programming and system administration tasks.