How to Create a Batch File to Add Two Numbers in Windows

Batch files are a great way to automate tasks in Windows using simple scripting. If you’re just starting to learn how batch files work, creating a script to add two numbers is a perfect beginner project.

In this article, you’ll learn how to write and run a batch file that takes two numbers from the user, adds them, and displays the result.

📄 What is a Batch File?

A batch file is a plain text file containing a series of commands that are executed in sequence by the Windows Command Prompt (CMD). Batch files use the .bat extension and are commonly used for automating tasks.

🛠 Steps to Create a Batch File to Add Two Numbers

1. Open Notepad

Start by opening Notepad or any plain text editor.

2. Copy and Paste the Following Code:

@echo off
setlocal

:: Ask for first number
set /p num1=Enter the first number: 

:: Ask for second number
set /p num2=Enter the second number: 

:: Add the two numbers
set /a sum=%num1% + %num2%

:: Display the result
echo The sum of %num1% and %num2% is %sum%.

pause
endlocal

3. Save the File

• Go to File > Save As.
• Name the file something like: add_numbers.bat.
• Change Save as type to All Files.
• Click Save.

4. Run the Batch File

Double-click the add_numbers.bat file. A Command Prompt window will open, asking you to input two numbers. After entering both numbers, the script will display their sum.

✅ Sample Output

Enter the first number: 10
Enter the second number: 25
The sum of 10 and 25 is 35.

📌 Important Notes

• The set /a command is used to perform arithmetic operations.
• This script only works with whole numbers (integers).
• If you want to work with decimal numbers, you’ll need to use PowerShell or another scripting language like Python.

🧠 Use Case

This simple script can be a great learning tool for:

• Students learning programming basics
• System administrators writing small utility tools
• Automating basic numeric tasks via batch scripting

🧾 Conclusion

Creating a batch file to add two numbers is an excellent way to understand user input, variables, and basic arithmetic in batch scripting. While limited to integers, it’s a helpful building block for more advanced automation scripts.

Let me know if you want to expand this into a calculator that supports subtraction, multiplication, and division as well!