How can I generate .csproj Project file only in C# Console App?

Question

I already have a Program.cs in the folder/directory and no other files.

When I do dotnet new console, it won't let me create it unless I use --force to overwrite the Program.cs. I think I just need to create .csproj project file to build, run and debug it.

Is there a dotnet new console with option to skip Program.cs creation?

Otherwise, I will need to make a new directory and create dotnet new console and then I have to replace the auto-generated Program.cs with my Program.cs.

Jon Skeet · Accepted Answer · 2022-05-06 15:32:37Z

6

Otherwise, I will need to make a new directory and create dotnet new console and then I have to replace the auto-generated Program.cs with my Program.cs.

Well there's a simpler option than that:

Rename Program.cs to OldProgram.cs
Run dotnet new console
Rename OldProgram.cs to Program.cs

Alternatively, just write the csproj file by hand - it's really simple. The default on my machine is:

<Project Sdk="Microsoft.NET.Sdk">

  <PropertyGroup>
    <OutputType>Exe</OutputType>
    <TargetFramework>net6.0</TargetFramework>
    <ImplicitUsings>enable</ImplicitUsings>
    <Nullable>enable</Nullable>
  </PropertyGroup>

</Project>

You could just copy/paste that into the new file...

answered May 6, 2022 at 15:32

Jon Skeet

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1 Comment

zawhtut Over a year ago

Yes. I could do that. What I did was I copy/cut the code in the original Program.cs and then dotnet new console --force. And I just paste the code in the new Program.cs. :D

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