Shrink a partition without losing data

Question

I've got a Linux-based OS installed on a partition I want to shrink. Want to avoid reinstallation or losing/corrupting data, if possible.

Answer 1

As always: Just in case do a backup of sensible data on the partition, you want to shrink.

Its a little messy but don't get scared (you'll be moving with your partition to your auntie and uncle in Bel Air. Wait wat? XD). Just start in the top right corner, and follow the numbers in ascending order.

Here is a text version of the steps:

• Install gparted / sudo apt-get install gparted
• Start gparted
  1. Select the disk in the upper right dropbox
  2. Select the partition in the main list in the middle
     • If mounted: Unmount that partition using the contex menu (right click)
  3. Click the resize button
  4. A dialog will pop up
  5. Resize
  6. Click "Apply" after double checking your changes. That's it.