[c] How to compile and run C files from within Notepad++ using NppExec plugin?

You can actually compile and run C code even without the use of nppexec plugins. If you use MingW32 C compiler, use g++ for C++ language and gcc for C language.

Paste this code into the notepad++ run section

cmd /k cd $(CURRENT_DIRECTORY) && gcc $(FILE_NAME) -o $(NAME_PART).exe  && $(NAME_PART).exe && pause

It will compile your C code into exe and run it immediately. It's like a build and run feature in CodeBlock. All these are done with some cmd knowledge.

Explanation:

  1. cmd /k is used for testing.
  2. cd $(CURRENT_DIRECTORY)
    • change directory to where file is located
  3. && operators
    • to chain your commands in a single line
  4. gcc $(FILE_NAME)
    • use GCC to compile File with its file extension.
  5. -o $(NAME_PART).exe
    • this flag allow you to choose your output filename. $(NAME_PART) does not include file extension.
  6. $(NAME_PART).exe
    • this alone runs your program
  7. pause
    • this command is used to keep your console open after file has been executed.

For more info on notepad++ commands, go to

http://docs.notepad-plus-plus.org/index.php/External_Programs