How do I learn AppleScript?

Before we get to how to learn Applescript, it’s important to first think about WHY you would want to learn it. Based on my experience, here’s my take on that.

• Applescript’s main reason-to-be is to send or receive data directly between applications and also control them. This is something unique that it does, so if this is what you want to do, Applescript may be what you need.

• I do like Applescript, but I wouldn’t recommend it as a general purpose scripting language. It can be slow and cumbersome and the syntax is unusual. Scripts are harder to share because most people use languages like python. Also, it can be a better use of your time to learn something that is more broadly useful.

• Some people say that Applescript is a good way to dabble in scripting and programming before moving to other languages. I encourage people (on Apple platforms) to look at Swift instead. It can be used for short scripts on up to large programs.

• If you have specific applications in mind that you want to control…