How to use DOS

In order to use DOS, one must first understand what is it. DOS is a single-user, single-task operating system. It allows one to create and manipulate files using basic file commands. DOS can also format a disk, make a copy of a file, list the names of all files on a given disk and check the characteristics of the disk and system.

In order to use DOS, you can first click the DOS icon on the desktop if it is there. If it isn't there, then enter "start/run/command" from windows desktop or ener "start/run/cmd" from windows desktop. Using the third option will launch a user friendly DOS "shell".

One of the primary functions of DOS is preparing diskettes with the FORMAT command, which initalizes a disk so that DOS can store information on it. It is very important to remember that you must format of a disk before using it. However, if a disk already has information on it and you format it anyway, you will lose all the information stored on disk! Using Windows XP, choose "help" from the start menu and a window should appear. In the seach box, enter format and then choose disk. A set of instructions should appear.

It is important to remember that information is stored in the computer in named units called Files. You have to name each file with a unique name in order for the computer to differentiate one file from another. All files must also have a description of the drive and/ or the directory to find the file. Remember: when searching for a specific file, if you do not specify which directory or drive, DOS will just assume.

If you are on DOS and you want to see which files you are using, use the DIR command. DIR stands for directory.Type "Internal". The format should read: DIR [d:] [filename [.ext]] [/p] [/w].

You can also create additional directories (subdirectories) from the parent directory. A subdirectory is called a Folder.The directory that is created at the time the disk is formatted is called the root director and is denoted by the "back slash" symbol \.

To create a new subdirectory use the MD command. To remove a directory, use the RD command. To move from one directory to another use the CD command. To display all the subdirectories from any point type Tree.

Now you know the basic functions of DOS. Hopefully, you understand how to create folders, view your files, move your files, and maneuver from one file to another.