Module manifest (.psd1) in PowerShell - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a PowerShell module manifest (.psd1 file)?

A module manifest is a special file in PowerShell that describes the contents and settings of a module. It helps PowerShell know what files belong to the module, its version, author, and other important details.

beginner

Which cmdlet is used to create a new module manifest in PowerShell?

The cmdlet <code>New-ModuleManifest</code> is used to create a new module manifest file (.psd1). It guides you to specify details like module version, author, and required modules.

intermediate

Name three key properties you can define in a PowerShell module manifest.

Three key properties are:

• ModuleVersion: The version number of the module.
• Author: The creator of the module.
• FunctionsToExport: The list of functions the module makes available to users.

intermediate

Why should you use a module manifest instead of just a script file for your PowerShell module?

A module manifest helps organize your module by listing all parts, controlling what is visible to users, specifying dependencies, and providing metadata. This makes your module easier to maintain and share.

advanced

What happens if you set FunctionsToExport to @() in a module manifest?

Setting FunctionsToExport to an empty array @() means no functions will be exported from the module. Users won’t be able to call any functions directly from the module.

What file extension does a PowerShell module manifest use?

A .ps1

B .psd1

C .psm1

D .psm

A PowerShell module manifest file always uses the .psd1 extension.

Which cmdlet creates a new module manifest?

A New-ModuleManifest

B New-Module

C New-ScriptManifest

D New-ManifestFile

The cmdlet New-ModuleManifest is designed to create a new module manifest file.

What does the RequiredModules property in a manifest specify?

A Functions to export

B The version of PowerShell required

C The author of the module

D Modules that must be installed before this module works

RequiredModules lists other modules that need to be present for this module to function properly.

If you want to hide all functions from users, what should you set FunctionsToExport to?

A @()

B $null

C '*'

D Leave it empty

Setting FunctionsToExport to an empty array @() exports no functions, hiding them from users.

Which property in a manifest file specifies the module's version?

A ManifestVersion

B Version

C ModuleVersion

D ModuleNumber

ModuleVersion is the property used to specify the version of the module.

Explain what a PowerShell module manifest (.psd1) file is and why it is useful.

Think about how a manifest helps PowerShell understand your module.

List and describe at least three important properties you can set in a PowerShell module manifest.

Focus on properties that control module info and behavior.