Skip to main content

QGIS Terminal

BEGINNER
📖3 min read
QGIS Terminal Plugin Overview and Quick Demo

Introduction​

QGIS Terminal adds an integrated terminal panel to QGIS, similar to the terminal in VS Code. Instead of switching between QGIS and an external shell, you can run command-line tools directly in the same workspace.

Key benefits:

  • Less context switching: Run CLI commands without leaving QGIS.
  • Multi-shell workflow: Use tabs and switch between shells as needed.

Plugin Repo

Source code, issues, and release notes.

QGIS Plugin

Install from the official QGIS Plugin Manager.

Video Demo

Short walkthrough of installation, tabs, and command usage.

Workflow / Usage​

Step 1: Install the Plugin​

In QGIS, open Plugins -> Manage and Install Plugins, search for QGIS Terminal, then select Install Plugin.

Step 2: Open the Terminal Dock​

After installation, click the terminal icon in the toolbar. The panel opens at the bottom and can be docked where you prefer.

Step 3: Optional Setup​

Use the settings icon if you want to customize appearance. You can also switch shell types (for example PowerShell, bash, zsh) from the terminal toolbar.

Step 4: Run Commands in QGIS​

Use the terminal like a normal shell. In the demo, commands include:

  • pwd, cd, ls -l
  • conda activate <env>
  • gdalinfo <file>
  • git
  • AI CLI tools such as Codex/Claude Code when installed

Step 5: Manage Tabs and Sessions​

Use the plus button to open multiple tabs, close tabs when done, clear output when needed, and use restart if a process gets stuck.

Documentation for Methodology​

What to document when using QGIS Terminal

In Your Method Section​

Record that commands were executed from the QGIS-integrated terminal, including QGIS version, plugin version, and active shell type.

In Your Decision Log​

Record the following:

  • Working directory used for processing
  • Commands executed (for example GDAL/Git commands)
  • Environment activation steps (for example conda)
  • Any terminal restart or retry actions
  • Date performed

Verification​

Confirm outputs by checking command logs and resulting files in the expected project directory.

Common Limitations​

The plugin provides shell access, but command success still depends on your local environment, installed tools, and path configuration.

Example Methodology Statement​

"QGIS Terminal was used inside QGIS [version] with plugin version [X]. The session ran in project directory [path], where GDAL commands were executed after activating environment [name]. Outputs were verified in the project workspace and logged in the command history."

Summary​

Key Takeaways:

  • QGIS Terminal brings CLI workflows directly into QGIS.
  • It is useful for running GIS tooling, environment commands, and automation CLIs without switching apps.