First MATLAB program

Introduction

Writing your first MATLAB program helps you learn how to tell the computer what to do using simple commands.

When you want to display a message on the screen.

When you want to check if MATLAB is working on your computer.

When you want to learn how to write and run MATLAB code.

When you want to start solving math problems using MATLAB.

Syntax

MATLAB

disp('Hello, world!')

disp is a command that shows text or numbers on the screen.

Text must be inside single quotes ' '.

Examples

This shows a different message on the screen.

MATLAB

disp('Welcome to MATLAB!')

This shows a number instead of text.

MATLAB

disp(123)

You can store text in a variable and then display it.

MATLAB

message = 'Good morning';
disp(message)

Sample Program

This program shows the message "Hello, world!" on the screen. It is the simplest way to start programming in MATLAB.

MATLAB

disp('Hello, world!')

Important Notes

Always end your commands with a semicolon ; to avoid showing extra output, but for disp you can leave it out.

You can run your program by typing its name in the MATLAB Command Window or pressing the Run button.

Summary

Your first MATLAB program uses disp to show messages.

Text messages must be inside single quotes.

Running this program helps you check MATLAB is ready to use.