PowerShell Command Cheat Sheet: How to Build Your Own and Work Smarter

Imagine being in the middle of your busy workday when a server issue pops up. You know PowerShell can fix it, but you can’t remember the exact command. If only you had a PowerShell command cheat sheet!

A PowerShell command cheat sheet can help you save time and reduce mistakes. 

Here’s how to build your own, step-by-step.

How to build your own PowerShell command cheat sheet

Follow these steps to create a cheat sheet that perfectly fits into your workflow:

1. Identify the commands you use most

List the commands you use most often. These might include basics like Get-Process, Set-ExecutionPolicy, or Start-Service. If you’re not sure where to begin, use Get-Command to explore commands by verb or noun. For example, Get-Command -Verb Get will show you all the commands related to retrieving information.

2. Organize by category

Group your commands into categories to make them easier to find, like:

• System Management
• File Operations
• Network Configuration
• Automation

For instance, under “File Operations,” you might list Get-ChildItem, Copy-Item, and Remove-Item.

Step 3: Add examples and parameters

Real-world examples make your cheat sheet more effective. Include practical use cases and key parameters. For example, under Get-ChildItem, you could add Get-ChildItem -Path C:\Users\* -Recurse to list all files in the “Users” directory. Don’t forget to highlight useful parameters and switches, like -Recurse, -Filter, or -Force.

Step 4: Leverage PowerShell’s built-in error-handling

If something goes wrong, like a file or path error, PowerShell has a built-in error-handling system that uses the Try, Catch, and Finally commands.

• Try lets you test a code by putting it inside a try block.
• Catch manages any exceptions that occur within the try block.
• Finally executes code after the try block (if there are no exceptions) or after the catch block (if an exception is triggered). This ensures it runs regardless of the outcome.  

Pair these error-handling techniques with Get-Help or Help to understand what went wrong and how to fix it. Adding the -Examples flag will show you real-world use cases for each command.

Step 5: Keep it current

Your cheat sheet should evolve as you do. Update it anytime you create a new script.

Boost efficiency with keyboard shortcuts

Discover commands, parameters, and methods you might not know about by using the Tab and Ctrl+Space keyboard shortcuts. 

Tab completion

The Tab key in PowerShell helps you work faster and reduce typing errors while filling in commands, parameters, and file paths. Here’s how:

• Commands: Type part of a command like Get-ChildItem, then press Tab. PowerShell will auto-complete it for you.
• Parameters: After typing a hyphen (-), press Tab to cycle through available options.
• File paths: Use Tab to auto-complete directory paths quickly and accurately.

Ctrl+Space

The Ctrl+Space shortcut helps you discover available options without leaving your script. Here’s what Ctrl+Space does and why it’s so useful:

• See parameters: After typing a hyphen (-) for a parameter, press Ctrl+Space to see a dropdown menu of all available switches for that command.
  • For example, type Get-ChildItem and press Ctrl+Space to view options like -Path, -Recurse, or -Filter.
• Explore properties: After typing a period (.) following an object, press Ctrl+Space to display all methods and properties you can use with that object.
  • For example, type (Get-Process). and press Ctrl+Space to see options like .Name, .Id, or .Start().
• Command discovery: If you’re unsure about a command or its syntax, Ctrl+Space can show relevant options as you type.

Combine Ctrl+Space with Tab for even faster workflows. Use Ctrl+Space to see all options at once, then Tab to cycle through them. 

Pro tips for mastering PowerShell

Master your PowerShell scripting skills with these tips and tricks:

• Use Get-Member to explore objects: Piping commands to Get-Member shows you properties and methods. For example, Get-Process | Get-Member reveals everything you can do with process objects.
• Combine commands with pipes: Chaining commands together creates powerful one-liners. For instance, Get-Service | Where-Object { $_.Status -eq ‘Running’ } lists all running services.
• Automate repetitive tasks: Use scripts to automate recurring tasks, like generating reports or managing logs. Automation is where PowerShell shines.
• Stay curious: PowerShell is a skill that grows with practice. Test commands in a safe environment to build confidence and discover new possibilities.

Your cheat sheet starter template

Here’s a sample PowerShell command cheat sheet with common commands organized by category. Make it your own by customizing it with your own commands, examples, and categories:

Become a PowerShell pro with Syncro’s script library

Build your PowerShell command cheat sheet with Syncro’s script library, where you’ll find plug-and-play scripts from Syncro community members. Whether you’re automating tasks or customizing processes and workflows, we’re always adding scripts that are adaptable to your needs.

Curious to see how Syncro can improve your IT operations? Start your free trial today and discover how Syncro’s scripting engine, seamless integrations, and unlimited support can help you work faster and smarter. 

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By

Bobby Amos

I have a strong drive to continuously improve our product, ensuring that our partners can serve their clients more effectively and efficiently.

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