I understand that many computer users find it a trouble to manually type error messages and paste it in forums to get help. For short error message, It’s not too bad. But there are some really long error messages with random error code numbers, location, file names UGH! I’d go mad if I had to type the error messages below.
Why don’t Windows error messages has a button for you to copy all the error messages? Why can’t I simply use my mouse to highlight the error messages in command prompt? Actually there are ways to let you copy the text in windows error message and also in command prompt.
Actually there is! You can easily copy Windows error messages by using the copy shortcut key CTRL+C. Don’t believe? Go to Start > Run, simply type anything at the run box and hit enter. You’ll get an error message that says “Windows cannot find ‘xxxxxxxx’. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again. To search for a file, click the Start button, and then click Search.” Now press CTRL+C simultaneously. Then open up a notepad or any text editor and hit CTRL+V. You should see this being pasted at your text editor.
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xxxxxxx
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Windows cannot find ‘xxxxxxx’. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again. To search for a file, click the Start button, and then click Search.
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OK
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Unfortunately this method doesn’t copy ALL error messages. Only windows error messages.
As for how to copy and paste in command prompt or DOS window, there are 2 ways to do it.
1. Right click at anywhere at the command prompt, and select Mark.
You can now use your mouse left click to mark the area that you want to copy. Once you have selected the text you want to copy, then use the right mouse button or the Enter key to copy the selected text to the clipboard. To paste, right click and select Paste.
2. Right click at command prompt titlebar and select Properties.
At options tab, check or enable QuickEdit Mode.
Click OK. You can now easily mark the text that you want in command prompt and then to copy the text, right click your mouse OR hit the enter key. To paste, right click your mouse.
Now you know how to copy error messages from windows and command prompt. Please make sure you include the exact error messages that you get from your computer in forum when posting a problem. It enables us to understand better what is the problem with your computer.
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