How to Use addpath function in MATLAB: Add Folders to Search Path Guide

Using the addpath Function in MATLAB

The addpath function adds folders to MATLAB's search path, allowing you to run scripts/functions from those locations without specifying full paths. MATLAB searches the path for .m files when you call a function.

Syntax

addpath(folderName1, folderName2, ..., '-begin' | '-end') % Default: '-begin' (top of path) addpath(..., '-frozen') % Disables change detection oldPath = addpath(...) % Returns path before adding

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Add a Single Folder:
    

    

   addpath('C:UsersYourNameDocumentsMATLABMyFolder') % Adds to top

    

    
2. Add Multiple Folders:
    

    

   addpath('folder1', 'folder2', '-end') % Adds to bottom

    

    
3. Add Folder + All Subfolders (use genpath):
    

    

   addpath(genpath('C:MyProject')) % Includes all subfolders

    

    
4. Make Permanent:
   • Run savepath to save for future sessions.
   • Or add addpath commands to startup.m (in matlabroot/toolbox/local).
5. Remove Folders:
    

    

   rmpath('C:MyFolder')

    

    
6. View Current Path:
    

    

   path % Displays full pat

Examples

• Temporary Add for Testing:
   

   

  addpath('.utils'); % Relative to current directory myFunction(); % Now callable rmpath('.utils'); % Clean up

   

   
• Project Setup Script:
   

  projectRoot = pwd;

  addpath(genpath(fullfile(projectRoot, 'src'))); addpath(genpath(fullfile(projectRoot, 'tools'))); savepath;

   

   

Tips & Best Practices

• Use full paths to avoid issues across machines/OS.
• genpath skips folders like @class, +package, private.
• Check if added: which myFunction (shows path if found).
• Common Error: "Undefined function" → Add the folder!
• GUI Alternative: Home tab → Set Path → Add Folder → Save.
• Why Use It? MATLAB only finds files in current folder or on path.