How to create a file with a . dot prefix in Windows Explorer

If you right click in Windows and try to make a new text file with a . period/dot in front of it:

Name the file...something like .gitignore, for example.

You"ll get the "You must type a file name" error.

But, rather than typing .gitignore, if you include an ending dot also, like

.gitignore.

Then it works fine.

Thanks, Mads, for the tip!

NOTE: We"re assuming that you have "File name extensions" turned on, because if you don"t, you"re likely not a programmer. ;)

UPDATED: Mads has created an "Add Empty File" Extension for VS that makes it easy to create . files as well!

SOURCE: http://www.hanselman.com/blog/HowToCreateAFileWithADotPrefixInWindowsExplorer.aspx