General questions from a non-Applescript coder.
General questions from a non-Applescript coder.
- Subject: General questions from a non-Applescript coder.
- From: Shawn Milo <email@hidden>
- Date: Wed, 27 Apr 2005 14:41:57 -0400
Hi! I've only been a Mac user since January, but I'm an experienced
coder in VB, VBScript, JavaScript, and Net.Data. I also have some
working knowledge of Python, Perl and bash scripting. I know basically
nothing about Java, C++, and the like. I use the Mac (my main machine)
and Linux (my servers) at home, and Windows XP at work.
So, here are my questions:
1. Should I learn Applescript? To some extent, it seems foolish not to
stick with Python and bash scripting, since that's applicable outside
of the Mac environment, and I can share code with more people. Is this
a case where the answer depends solely on whether I intend to script
to Mac apps such as iTunes and Finder, or just do other
maintainance/one-off scripts?
2. When Automator is used, and the procedure is saved, is it in
Applescript? I can see how being able to share and edit these scripts
would be immensely useful.
3. Is there a "must-have" book for beginners? I usually learn much
better if I tackle a small script, and then use Google and a mailing
list when I get stuck. But it's nice to have a reference book. I'll
never read one beginning-to-end like I'm taking a class, so I like to
have something more like a reference than a textbook, although I like
one with plenty of working examples of the syntax. From the Amazon
reviews, it seems like "AppleScript : The Definitive Guide" by Matt
Neuburg is well-regarded, as is the "Missing Manual," by Adam
Goldstein.
4. In the reviews for the "Definitive Guide," it is made pretty clear
that Applescript has, or at least had, "as a language and development
environment has some terrible problems," and "when you're banging your
head against the keyboard because a script doesn't work as expected,
it's good to know that the language is not without unique
'personality' and that you're not alone." Those two quotes were from
two separate, well-written and coherent reviews, written in 2004. Has
the language evolved since then?
I would really appreciate answers to one or more of these questions
from several people, in order to get a better sense of Applescript,
especially question four. I hope no one interprets that question as a
jab at AS -- I'm really interested in getting involved, but I thought
I should ask those "in the know" before I jump in with both feet.
Thanks, all!
Shawn
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