Parameters in PowerShell - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a parameter in a PowerShell script?

A parameter is a way to pass information into a PowerShell script or function so it can use that information to do its work.

beginner

How do you define a parameter in a PowerShell script?

You define parameters inside a param() block at the start of the script or function.

intermediate

What is the purpose of specifying a parameter type in PowerShell?

Specifying a type helps PowerShell check that the input is the right kind of data, like a number or text, making scripts safer and clearer.

intermediate

How can you make a parameter optional in PowerShell?

You can make a parameter optional by not marking it as mandatory. You can also provide a default value so the script uses that if no input is given.

intermediate

What does the [switch] parameter type do in PowerShell?

A [switch] parameter acts like a simple on/off flag. If you include it when running the script, it is true; if you leave it out, it is false.

Where do you place the param() block in a PowerShell script?

A At the very start of the script

B Anywhere in the middle of the script

C Only inside functions

D At the end of the script

The param() block must be at the start of the script or function to define parameters properly.

What happens if you run a script with a mandatory parameter but do not provide it?

A The script ignores the parameter

B The script runs with a default value

C PowerShell asks you to enter the value

D The script crashes without message

PowerShell prompts you to enter a value for mandatory parameters if you don't provide one.

How do you define a parameter with a default value in PowerShell?

A <code>param([string]$name = 'Guest')</code>

B <code>param([string]$name?)</code>

C <code>param([string]$name!)</code>

D <code>param([string]$name*)</code>

You assign a default value using the equals sign inside the param block.

What type of parameter is best for a simple on/off option?

A [int]

B [switch]

C [bool]

D [string]

The [switch] type is designed for on/off flags without needing to specify true or false explicitly.

Which of these is a correct way to declare a mandatory parameter?

A <code>[Parameter(Required)] [string]$Name</code>

B <code>[Mandatory] [string]$Name</code>

C <code>[string]$Name = Mandatory</code>

D <code>[Parameter(Mandatory=$true)] [string]$Name</code>

The correct syntax uses the Parameter attribute with Mandatory=$true.

Explain how to create a PowerShell script that accepts a mandatory string parameter and an optional integer parameter with a default value.

Think about using [Parameter(Mandatory=$true)] and assigning a default value with =

Describe the difference between a [switch] parameter and a boolean parameter in PowerShell.

Consider how you use them when calling the script.