Build,run qmake,run,rebuild,clean options for projects in QtCreator

[Swati777999]

Hi all,

I want to know about the difference between these options available such as Build, run qmake, run, rebuild clean options when you right-click on the project.

[sierdzio]

OK this will take some explaining :-)

In order to run an application if you only have code, these are the necessary steps:

• qmake - creates build instructions for the build system (make or nmake)
• build - this compiles the source code and links it into a binary executable (by calling make). Build artifacts (object files, make files, debug symbols) are generated here and left in place - to speed up future builds (incremental builds)
• run - this simply instructs the Operating System to execute your application (same thing happens when you double-click an .exe file in file browser)

Now, in Qt Creator here is what menu actions do:

• Build - this will run qmake if necessary, then run make (compile & link the executable)
• Run qmake - this will only run qmake (generate Makefiles) but it will not proceed with compilation
• Run - this will run qmake and build if necessary, then run (execute) your application
• Rebuild - this will clean, then run qmake then build
• Clean - this will clean up the build artifacts (Makefile, object files, debug symbols, MOC, UIC files etc.) leaving the build directory clean

I hope this makes it a bit more clear. If not, please ask more :-)