`Environment.NewLine`

In the VB.NET programming language, you can access the Environment.NewLine property. This String equals \r\n. Using NewLine leads to clear and readable code.

In this language, we can alternatively use the vbCrLf value directly. This value helps with compatibility with older programs. We review this useful property.

Example

First, we will look at the Environment.NewLine property. This property simply returns the string literal equal to vbCrLf, which is equal to "\r\n" in C# and other languages.

Tip For some programmers, using Environment.NewLine is more descriptive, in that it indicates exactly what it is.

Info In most cases, there is no functional difference between Environment.NewLine and alternative representations.

Module Module1
    Sub Main()
        ' Create two-line string.
        Dim value As String = "[First" + _
            Environment.NewLine + _
            "Second]"
        ' Write to console.
        Console.WriteLine(value)
    End Sub
End Module[First
Second]

Example 2

This is another way you can insert a newline. The vbCrLf is a special symbol that is compiled into the string literal "\r\n" as represented in other languages such as the C# language.

Here We use the concat operator on the string literal. Its effect is equivalent to the + operator shown in the first example.

Module Module1
    Sub Main()
        ' Use vbCrLf.
        Dim value As String = "[First" & vbCrLf & "Second]"
        ' Write to console.
        Console.WriteLine(value)
    End Sub
End Module[First
Second]

IL

You are probably curious what the intermediate language of this program looks like. The vbCrLf is the same as "\r\n" in the C# language.

Info At compile-time, the complete string literal is created and used directly in the program.

Next This is the relevant instruction from the intermediate language. The string is "\r\n".

L_0001: ldstr "[First\r\nSecond]"

Depending on your preferences, you can either use Environment.NewLine or vbCrLf. For many programmers, Environment.NewLine is easier to read, so should be preferred.