How to Run or Launch Files from Notepad++

Notepad++ is a powerful text and source code editor, not an integrated development environment (IDE) that compiles and runs programs directly. However, it offers robust features to easily launch or execute the files you're working on using external applications, such as web browsers for HTML or interpreters for scripts.

1. Using Notepad++'s Built-in Run Menu (Recommended)

This is the most direct and convenient way to run or launch files from within the Notepad++ interface. The "Run" menu allows you to execute commands, open files with specific applications, or launch them in various web browsers.

For Web Files (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)

If you're working on web development, Notepad++ provides quick shortcuts to open your HTML, CSS, or JavaScript files in common browsers.

Steps:

1. Open your HTML, CSS, or JavaScript file in Notepad++.
2. Navigate to the Run menu in the top bar.
3. Select one of the "Launch in" options:
   • Launch in Chrome
   • Launch in Firefox
   • Launch in Edge
   • Launch in IE (Internet Explorer)

This will instantly open your current file in the selected web browser, allowing you to preview your work.

For Script Files (Python, Node.js, PHP, etc.) or Custom Commands

You can configure Notepad++ to run scripts or execute custom commands using their respective interpreters.

Steps:

1. Open your script file (e.g., a .py Python file, a .js Node.js file) in Notepad++.

2. Go to the Run menu and select Run... (or press F5).

3. In the "Run..." dialog box, enter the command to execute your file. Here are some common examples:

   Language	Command Example	Explanation
   Python	cmd /k python "$(FULL_CURRENT_PATH)"	cmd /k keeps the command prompt window open after execution. python is the interpreter. $(FULL_CURRENT_PATH) is a Notepad++ macro representing the full path of your current file.
   Node.js	cmd /k node "$(FULL_CURRENT_PATH)"	Executes a JavaScript file with the Node.js runtime.
   PHP	cmd /k php "$(FULL_CURRENT_PATH)"	Runs a PHP script using the PHP interpreter.
   Batch File	cmd /k "$(FULL_CURRENT_PATH)"	Directly executes a batch file.

4. Click Run. A command prompt window will typically open, showing the output of your script.

5. Optional: To save this command for future use, click the Save... button in the "Run..." dialog. You can assign a name and even a keyboard shortcut (e.g., Ctrl + Alt + P for Python scripts) for quick access.

2. Launching Files from File Explorer

While not directly "in Notepad++," this method is crucial for managing file associations and is often used when you need to launch a file with a specific program that isn't your default.

If you navigate to the folder containing your file (e.g., by right-clicking the file tab in Notepad++ and selecting "Open Containing Folder"), you can then right-click on the file itself. From the contextual menu, select the 'Open with' option. This action will bring up an option box, which allows you to select the specific program you wish to use to open that file. This method is useful for quickly associating file types with default programs or for opening a file with a non-default application. For instance, you can use this to always open .html files in your preferred browser or a .txt file with a specific text viewer.

3. Using Notepad++ Plugins (Advanced)

For more complex scenarios or integrated development workflows, Notepad++ offers plugins that extend its "run" capabilities:

• NppExec: This powerful plugin allows you to execute almost any command or script within Notepad++. You can define complex sequences of commands, compile code, and redirect output directly into the Notepad++ console.
• Python Script: For Python developers, this plugin integrates the Python interpreter, allowing you to write and run Python scripts directly within Notepad++, and even manipulate Notepad++'s interface and text.

By utilizing these methods, you can effectively "run" or launch your files and projects directly or indirectly from your Notepad++ editing environment, streamlining your workflow.