Sample Help Index
Sample Help File by Todd T. Snoddy

Creating Help Files

Viewing Help Files

Copyright Notice


Copyright Notice
Copyright Notice for this Sample Help File

This help file has been created with the aid of RTFGEN. It is a sample by Todd T. Snoddy to demonstrate the use of RTFGEN to create a help file.  It is intended to be distributed freely with the Windows Programming Journal.


RTFGEN is a free program by David Baldwin, Compuserve ID 76327,53. Its purpose is to convert a standard ASCII text file into a RTF file for use with the Windows help compiler.

If you use RTFGEN for your help files, please contact the author with your comments to encourage him to continue to make fine utilities like this in the future.


The Windows Programming Journal (WPJ) is an online computer magazine specificially for Windows Programmers.  It provides Windows program reviews, tutorials, editorials, and other information.  It is written for Windows programmers and users by Windows programmers and users.


Creating Help Files
Creating a Windows Help File

To create a help file for Windows, you will need a RTF input file and the Windows help compiler.

 The RTF File

The RTF file can be generated by a word processor capable of saving a file in that format, or by a utility like RTFGEN.

 The Help Compiler

The help compiler is usually provided with the Windows language compilers from various software vendors.


Viewing Help Files
Viewing a Windows Help File

As you already know if you're viewing this, you need the file WINHELP.EXE to view Windows Help Files.  This file is included with Windows.

You can also use Microsoft's Multimedia VIEWER.EXE file to view Windows help files.