How to write a basic batch script

Overview

A batch file is a plain-text file ending in .bat or .cmd. CMD executes its lines in order, making repeatable tasks easy.

Begin with read-only or copy-based automation. Add deletion only after validating paths, handling errors, and testing with disposable data.

• Save the example as hello.cmd, then run hello.cmd Student.
• %~dp0 is the script's drive and folder, which is safer than assuming the current directory.
• Inside batch files, FOR variables use two percent signs such as %%F.

Commands to try

Type each command at the prompt, then press Enter. Replace sample names and paths with ones that exist on your computer.

Commands are generally not case-sensitive, but preserving the spelling shown here makes scripts easier to read.

@echo off
setlocal
rem Show the first argument and script folder
echo Argument: %~1
echo Script folder: %~dp0
if "%~1"=="" (
  echo Usage: %~nx0 name
  exit /b 2
)
for %%F in ("%~dp0*.txt") do echo %%~nxF
endlocal

Useful options and details

Options change how a command behaves. Add spaces exactly as shown, and use the command's built-in help when an option is unfamiliar.

A path containing spaces must be enclosed in double quotes, such as "C:\My Files".

• @echo off hides command echo while retaining output.
• setlocal keeps variable changes local to the script.
• %1 is the first argument; %* represents all arguments; exit /b code returns a status.

Tips and common mistakes

Check the current folder and read the command output before assuming an operation succeeded.

Practice with disposable files first. Commands that delete, overwrite, or stop a process may not offer an Undo button.

• Double-clicking closes the window at completion; run the script from an open CMD while debugging.
• Quote every path variable that may contain spaces, and validate that it is defined before a destructive operation.
• Use call other.cmd when control must return to the first script.

Safe practice

Create a temporary practice folder under your user profile so the examples cannot affect Windows system files.

After each command, inspect the result with dir or another read-only command before continuing.

• Create a script that prints its argument and current date.
• Add a missing-argument check.
• Run it from a different directory and confirm %~dp0 remains correct.