How Do I Set the Current Working Directory in Dyalog?

You can change the working directory in Dyalog using the ]cd user command:

]cd c:\tmp\

To view the current directory:

]cd

The working directory determines where Dyalog reads and writes files by default.

Why Does the Working Directory Matter?

If Dyalog does not have write permission for the current directory, file operations may fail.

Example:

)save myws
Can't save – file could not be created.

Alternative: Specify a Full Path

You can always provide an explicit path:

)save c:\tmp\myws

Setting the Directory at Startup (Windows)

To define the default directory when launching Dyalog:

• Right-click on the Dyalog shortcut
• Select Properties
• Edit the Start in field

Programmatic Control

The working directory can also be changed from within Dyalog:

)load files
Files.SetCurrentDirectory 'c:\tmp\'
Files.GetCurrentDirectory