How to compile C program on command line using MinGW?

Question

What command does one have to enter at the command line in Windows 7 to compile a basic C program?

Like I am literally wondering what you type in the command prompt, to

Answer 1

Instead of setting the %PATH% you may enter your msys shell. In standard msys and mingw installation gcc is in path, so you can run gcc or which gcc.

I have a batch file sh.bat on my Windows 7, in %PATH%:

C:\lang\msys\bin\sh.exe --login %*

Whenever I want to use gcc I enter cmd, then sh, then gcc. I find it very convenient.

When working with linux originated software avoid spaced directories like Program Files. Install them rather to Program_Files. The same regards to tools that you may want to run from msys environment.