Visual Studio Paths

Overview

Visual Studio keeps a list of default paths for includes and library files in order to make things easier when developing. When a file to include resides in one of the default paths, it can be included by surrounding the filename with <> rather than "", and the path can be omitted. For example, #include <isxdk.h>, rather than #include "c:\program files\inner space\isxdk\include\isxdk.h". This also makes things easier when sharing your source code with others, so their directory structure does not need to match yours.

Visual Studio .NET 2002 and 2003

1. Drop down the Tools menu, and select Options
2. In the box on the left is a list of option categories. Select "Projects" and then the sub-category "VC++ Directories"
3. In the upper right hand corner is a drop-down box that selects a particular set of default directories, including "Executable files", "Include files", "Reference files", "Library files", and "Source files". Generally, you only want to add to the "Include files" or "Library files" lists. Select "Include files"
4. In the middle of the right hand side of the window is a list of directories. Add the include path by pressing the "New Line" button above the window, or by pressing "Ctrl-Insert". A blank entry appears for you to either type the path or navigate by clicking the "..." button. Generally the final path you want will end with a folder called "include". Enter the path now

If the desired library uses a lib file, continue following the steps. If not, you're done. Just click OK.

1. Select "Library files" in the drop-down box
2. In the same fashion as done for the include file path, add the path to the library files. Generally the final path will end with a folder called "lib"
3. You're done, click OK