Learning AppleScript
AppleScript is designed to be easy to read, somewhat like regular English. However, it is a programming language and it has unique conventions. Beginners to programming or scripting sometimes appreciate AppleScript's "colloquial" syntax. Those accustomed to programming in other languages can find AppleScript unpredictable. Though there are several ways to write code for the same task, you still have to follow conventions. For this reason, I suggest using recommended code constructions.
First, you have to learn AppleScript to be able to write scripts and translate your Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macros to AppleScript. If you can write VBA code or another programming language, you will find the concepts and constructs familiar. It won't take you long to learn, just a few days or weeks to become fluent in the basics.
AppleScript books
There is a selection of AppleScript books for varying needs in the following table.
Book | Description |
|---|---|
AppleScript: The Missing Manual, written by Adam Goldstein, published by O'Reilly Media, Inc. | A primer to help you learn the basics quickly. |
AppleScript: The Definitive Guide, 2nd Edition, written by Matt Neuburg, published by O'Reilly Media, Inc. | A great book on the AppleScript language. Good for people who already know another language, such as VBA. |
AppleScript: The Comprehensive Guide to Scripting and Automation in Mac OS X, 2nd Edition, written by Hanaan Rosenthal, published by Apress | An exhaustive, step-by-step guide, especially good for beginners. |
Beginning AppleScript, written by Stephen G. Kochan, published by Wrox Press | A step-by-step guide for beginners. |
AppleScript Handbook, Mac OS X Edition, written by Danny Goodman, published by SpiderWorks, LLC. | The most compact, all-purpose AppleScript guide. |
AppleScripting the Finder eBook, written by Ben Waldie, published by SpiderWorks, LLC. | A useful resource when scripting for the Finder. |
AppleScript online resources
AppleScript Language Guide
(http://developer.apple.com/documentation/AppleScript/Conceptual/AppleScriptLangGuide/index.html)
is a free, exhaustive reference guide provided by Apple.
AppleScript magazines
MacTech Magazine regularly runs articles that cover the range from beginning to advanced AppleScript.
