visual c++ 2005 express edition compiler

im writing a simple program

Code:

---

int main()
{
std::cout << "hello";
}

---

now im curious how exactly using this compiler can i run the program? theres a "Start Debugging" which has a play button beside it which leads me to believe thats how you run the program, but its grayed out, help!

edit: oh and the start without debugging option is grayed out as well.

i dont have this installed anymore so i dont remember exactly. however, did you go through the process and create a new "project"? if you just opened or created a new .cpp file you wont be able to "run" it.

also the play button, as you said, is for debugging. debugging isnt the same as "running". there should be "build" or "compile" buttons in the same menu as the debugging options. you would build/compile then run the .exe file created in the "Debug" or "Release" folder of your project (depending on which "build mode" is selected, i think release is the default). if your making a GUI project you should be able to double-click the created .exe file, otherwise run it from a command line (cmd.exe).

Try pressing F7 to build your application. If that gives you an error (such as "No project defined") or "nothing happens", then nadroj is probably right in that you haven't got your source file in a project.

--
Mats

The code should look like:

Code:

---

int main()
{
    std::cout << "hello";
}

---

...with proper indenting.
The IDE does it for you, so don't fight it!