batch file abc's

batch file abc's

This tutorial is for Windows PC users who want to routinely perform a series of file management operations without having to enter commands one at a time. Using a text editor such as Notepad, type each command on a separate line in the order of execution. Save the file with a .CMD extension.

If the following commands are saved in a batch file named BACKIMAGES.CMD, every time BACKIMAGES is run, the Xcopy commands will be executed in sequential order:

  BACKIMAGES.CMD
    xcopy \images\*.gif \backup /mxcopy \images\*.jpg \backup /mxcopy \images\*.png \backup /m

  C:\BATCHFILES>backimages   run script

Tip!
Store all batch files in a dedicated folder and add that folder to the Path environment variable so that any batch file can be executed from any prompt (see Path environment variable).


Selective Operation
A batch file can include multiple tasks, and the user can choose which one to execute. See Choice.

User Input
A batch file can be flexible and accept user input. The percent sign (%) symbol is used to indicate the parameter variables that are replaced with actual user input when the command is executed. Notice the behavior if the following command were in a batch file named SAVE.CMD:

 batch command:  xcopy \%1\*.%2 g:\ /m

 user enters:    C:\>save bob gif

 executes as:    xcopy \bob\*.gif g:\ /m

Stop a Running Batch File
To stop a batch file in operation, press Ctrl-C or Ctrl-Break.

Quick Reference

The following commands are commonly used in batch files:

cls        Clear screen
  rem or ::  Remarks
  @echo off  Turn off display
              for this command only
  echo off   Turn off display
  echo on    Turn on display
  echo       Display message; for example,
              echo Press Y for Yes
  call       Call other batch file
  pause      Stop and wait for keystroke

  choice     Input selection (see  Choice.)
  if not errorlevel 0 goto :lineif not exist filename goto :lineif not string1==string2 goto :line%1 - %9   - Input parameter variables

Copyright © 1981-2025 by The Computer Language Company Inc. All Rights reserved. THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY. All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.