Defining and using a variable in batch file

Question

I\'m trying to define and use a variable in a batch file. It looks like it should be simple:

@echo off

set locatio         


        

Answer 1

The spaces are significant. You created a variable named 'location ' with a value of
' "bob"'. Note - enclosing single quotes were added to show location of space.

If you want quotes in your value, then your code should look like

set location="bob"

If you don't want quotes, then your code should look like

set location=bob

Or better yet

set "location=bob"

The last syntax prevents inadvertent trailing spaces from getting in the value, and also protects against special characters like & | etc.