How to Add a Command Line Parameter to a Windows Shortcut

Techwalla may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Adding a command-line parameter to a Windows shortcut can save time by automatically performing certain tasks as the program launches. For example, you could start Microsoft Word with a specific document open or add-ons loaded, or start a video game with cheat codes enabled just by clicking the shortcut. This simply involves modifying the shortcut properties. The switches available depend on the program. Check the help documentation for your program to see a list of command line switches for it.

Advertisement

Step 1

Right-click the shortcut and click "Properties."

Video of the Day

Step 2

Click inside the Target box and press the "End" key to position the cursor at the end of the command line, outside the quotes enclosing the path to the application.

Advertisement

Step 3

Press "Space" and then enter the command-line switch, usually beginning with a forward slash or hyphen followed by a command. For example, type "/a" (without quotes here and in subsequent commands) or "-windowed=1." Include one space before each switch and each parameter within the same switch.

Advertisement

Step 4

Click "Apply" to save the changes.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

Advertisement

references