title: Ruby on Rails: Rakefile not found, Rake suddenly stops working
body: <p>I recently decided to convert my app's database from SQLite to MySQL and apache (using xampp). I installed xampp with no issues and I followed <a href="https://stackoverflow.com/questions/1670154/convert-a-ruby-on-rails-app-from-sqlite-to-mysql">Convert a Ruby on Rails app from sqlite to MySQL?</a> SO to prepare my app for the switch. I then attempted <strong>rake db:migrate</strong> and instantly received this:  </p>
  
  <pre><code>No Rakefile found (looking for: rakefile, Rakefile, rakefile.rb, Rakefile.rb)
  </code></pre>
  
  <p>I back tracked made sure the MySql gem was installed and tried another rake command, no luck. I uninstalled ruby on rails and re-installed, created a fresh app, and still no luck. In fact, as soon as I try to use any rake command after re-installing I get that error. I have checked to make sure the rakefile exists. I have no idea what is going on and I couldn't find anyone with the same issue.</p>
  
  <p>the rake commands were working fine for weeks. At some point in the last 24 hours I messed it up somehow.</p>
  
  <p>One other point of interest, i first installed db explorer before xammp but wasn't able to get it to run.</p>
  
  <p>EDIT: Fixed issue by uninstalling rails, backing up and deleting all apps, deleting .gem folder, removing all global paths. Then re-installed with <strong>RailsInstaller</strong>, set user Paths, went to <strong>rake</strong> directory and <strong>rake</strong> command did not return the perpetrating message. I then created a new app with MySql2 and merged in my original app... </p>
  
  <p>I am still no closer to understanding why rake suddenly stopped working. Therefore, I'm leaving this SO up in case I or another user discovers the cause.</p>