The batch file below receives a file which is type at DOS prompt, e.g.,  example.bat  .
What I would like to do is to print out an error message on the screen e.g., MUST ENTER NAME OF FILE.  Then I would send the user back to the beginning if the user FORGETS to enter file name.

dir ..\test\%1.cob
dir ..\copy\%1.cob
choice /c:yn continue
if errorlevel = 2 goto :finish
if errorlevel = 1 goto :continue
:continue
echo on
copy \test\%1.cob \copy\test /y
:finish

Tnks in anticipationWhen is this due to be handed in ?

It sounds like homework to me .... if not, this page has your answer
http://www.csulb.edu/~murdock/if.html

GrahamIf the batch file requires a file name as a parameter, and the user doesn't specify the parameter, then the only way have them go back and provide the parameter is to have them re-run the batch file.  Depending on the command processor, you COULD prompt for the parameter, also.

I think you want something like this:
Code: [Select]echo off
if not {%1}=={} goto arg1OK
echo MUST ENTER NAME OF FILE
goto :finish
:arg1OK
dir ..\test\%1.cob
dir ..\copy\%1.cob
choice /c:yn continue
if errorlevel = 2 goto :finish
if errorlevel = 1 goto :continue
:continue
echo on
copy \test\%1.cob \copy\test /y
:finish
Or to prompt (in command prompt under Windows 2000 / XP / 2003):
Code: [Select]echo off
if {%1}=={} (SET /p FILENAME=Please enter name of file:
) else set filename=%1
dir ..\test\%filename%.cob
dir ..\copy\%filename%.cob
choice /c:yn continue
if errorlevel = 2 goto :finish
if errorlevel = 1 goto :continue
:continue
echo on
copy \test\%filename%.cob \copy\test /y
:finish Thank you... I used your first example and it worked.