Why do I need StdAfx.h?

[aidenkael]

I have a school assignment for C++, and my code is solid but will not compile. We are learning cout, cin, and loops this week, and are creating a simple hello world program. Here is my code:

#include <iostream> // library file to read from the keyboard, write to screen
using namespace std; /* required when multiple files are used
                        just include this so you get in a good habit! */

int main() // Tells the computer that this is where the code begins
{ // all the code in main must be enclosed in {}

    cout << "Hello World " << endl;
    /* writes Hello World to the screen.
       (pronounced SEE-out.
       endl stands for end-of-line */
    
    system("pause"); // holds the window open until the user hits a key
    return 0; // ends main and returns 0 (which means no errors)
} // end of main 

When I try and compile it I receive this error message:

1 2 3 4 5

1

1> Hello World.cpp 1>Hello World.cpp(1): warning C4627: '#include <iostream>': skipped when looking for precompiled header use 1> Add directive to 'StdAfx.h' or rebuild precompiled header 1>Hello World.cpp(16): fatal error C1010: unexpected end of file while looking for precompiled header. Did you forget to add '#include "StdAfx.h"' to your source? ========== Build: 0 succeeded, 1 failed, 0 up-to-date, 0 skipped ==========

What is StdAfx.h and why is it needed (or asked for). In class we have not run across this, and as far as I know we only need the #include <iostream> to read to and from the console window.

[Cubbi]

You must have created your Visual Studio project with "use precompiled headers" checkbox on (it's on by default). You can turn it off, on my VS2012, it's Project->Properties->Configuration Properties->C/C++->Precompiled Headers->Precompiler Header "Not using precompiled headers"

[aidenkael]

I am using VS 2010 C++, because I can't figure out how to create a new project that isn't an app in 2012 (I have Windows 8). How do I change it in 2010?

Edit!
Dumb question, it was the exact same!