Instructions for creating and using BAT files on Windows

Batch files are a way for computer users to get work done. They can automate everyday tasks, shorten the time it takes to do something, and turn a complex process into something anyone can operate.

In this article, you will learn how to write a simple batch file, learn the basics of batch file functions, and how to write them yourself. The article will also provide you with additional resources to learn how to write batch files (BAT).

How to create a batch file on Windows

To create a Windows batch file, follow these steps:

1. Open a text file, such as a Notepad or WordPad document.
2. Add your commands, starting with @echo [off]followed by each command in a new line, title. title [title of your batch script], echo. echo [first line] and pause. pause.
3. Save your file with the file extension BATFor example: test.bat.
4. To run your batch file, double-click the BAT file you just created.
5. To edit your batch file, right click on the BAT file and select Edit.

Your raw file will look something like this:

And here is the corresponding command window for the above example:

If this tutorial was too quick or if you want to learn more about BAT file commands and how to use them, read on!

Step 1: Create BAT file

Let's say you often encounter network problems; you have to go to Command Prompt, enter ipconfig and ping Google to troubleshoot network problems. After a while, you realize that it's a bit more efficient if you just write a simple BAT file, stick it on a USB, and use it on the machines you troubleshoot.

Create a new text document

Batch files help simplify repeatable computer tasks using Windows Command Prompt. Below is an example of a batch file responsible for displaying some text in your Command Prompt. Create a new BAT file by right-clicking on an empty space in the folder and selecting New > Text Document.

Add code

Double click New Text Document to open your default text editor. Copy and paste the following code into your text entry.

@echo off
title This is your first batch script!
echo Welcome to batch scripting!
pause

Save as BAT file

The above script repeats the words “Welcome to batch scripting!”. Save your file by going to File >Save Asthen name the file as desired. End your filename with the added BAT extension, for example: Welcome.bat and click OK. This will complete the batch process. Now, double-click your newly created batch file to activate it.

Don't assume that's all batch scripts can do. Batch script parameters are tweaked versions of Command Prompt code, so you are only limited to what your Command Prompt can do. For those unfamiliar with this program, Command Prompt is a powerful tool, but if you're using Windows 11, you should set Windows Terminal as your default application.

Step 2: Learn the basics of creating batch scripts

Batch files use the same language as Command Prompt. All you're doing is telling the Command Prompt what you want to import using a file, instead of typing it out in the Command Prompt. This helps you save time and effort. It also allows you to introduce some logic, like simple loops, conditional statements, etc. that procedural programming is conceptually capable of implementing.

• @echo: This parameter will allow you to see your active script in Command Prompt. This parameter is useful to see your code working. If any problems arise from the batch file, you will be able to see the problems related to your script using the echo function. The extra off Entering this parameter will allow you to quickly close your script once completed.
• title. title: Provides many of the same functions as tags
• cls: Clear your Command Prompt, best used when extraneous code might make the content you're accessing difficult to find.
• rem: Abbreviation of remark Provides similar functionality to tags