Automating Tasks in Windows with Task Scheduler

Windows provides a built-in tool called Task Scheduler that allows you to automate tasks like launching apps, running scripts, or performing maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you schedule your first task.

1. Open Task Scheduler

Press Windows + S and search for Task Scheduler
Launch the Task Scheduler application

2. Create a New Task

In the right-hand panel, click on Create Basic Task
Provide a name (e.g., Daily Script Runner) and a description
Click Next

3. Set the Trigger

Choose when the task should run:

Daily
Weekly
One Time
At system startup
When you log on

For most automation, Daily or At startup is common.

4. Define the Action

Choose Start a program and click Next.

Browse to the script or executable you want to run. For example:

C:\Users\YourName\Scripts\my_script.bat

You can also specify optional arguments or a working directory if needed.

5. Finish Setup

Review the details and click Finish.

The task is now scheduled and will run according to your trigger.

6. View, Edit, or Delete Tasks

In the Task Scheduler Library, find your task in the central pane
Right-click on it to Run, Disable, or Delete
Use Properties to edit the schedule or action

Tips

To run scripts that require admin privileges, use Create Task instead of Create Basic Task and check Run with highest privileges.
For long-running background jobs, consider enabling Hidden and Run whether user is logged in or not.

Done!

With this setup, you’ve just given Windows a to-do list. Task Scheduler will take care of the rest, like a responsible intern who never complains or takes coffee breaks.