How to Run MATLAB Script: Simple Steps to Execute Your Code

To run a MATLAB script, type the script name without the .m extension in the command window and press Enter. Alternatively, open the script in the MATLAB editor and click the Run button to execute it.

Syntax

To run a MATLAB script, use the script name without the .m extension in the command window. For example, if your script file is named myscript.m, you run it by typing myscript.

This runs all commands inside the script in order.

matlab

myscript

Example

This example shows a simple MATLAB script that prints a message and calculates a sum. Save this as exampleScript.m and run it by typing exampleScript in the command window.

matlab

disp('Hello from MATLAB script!')
a = 5;
b = 10;
c = a + b;
disp(['Sum is: ' num2str(c)])

Output

Hello from MATLAB script!
Sum is: 15

Common Pitfalls

• Not in current folder: MATLAB must be in the folder where the script is saved or the folder must be added to the path.
• File extension included: Do not type .m when running the script.
• Script name conflicts: Avoid naming scripts the same as MATLAB functions.

matlab

%% Wrong way (includes extension)
exampleScript.m

%% Right way (no extension)
exampleScript

Quick Reference

Remember these tips to run MATLAB scripts smoothly:

• Type script name without .m in command window.
• Make sure MATLAB's current folder is where the script is saved.
• Use the Run button in the editor for easy execution.
• Add folders to path if scripts are stored elsewhere.

Key Takeaways

Run MATLAB scripts by typing their name without the .m extension in the command window.

Ensure the script file is in MATLAB's current folder or on its path before running.

Use the editor's Run button for quick script execution.

Avoid naming scripts the same as built-in MATLAB functions to prevent conflicts.

Do not include the .m extension when running scripts.