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 /m
xcopy \images\*.jpg \backup /m
xcopy \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 :line
if not exist filename goto :line
if not string1==string2 goto :line
%1 - %9 - Input parameter variables