How to Enhance Your Adobe Illustrator Workflow with Scripts

When using Adobe Illustrator, there might come a time when the standard tools and functionalities are not enough, or you need to automate some repetitive tasks. As a smart designer, you will eventually seek out ways to streamline your workflow, boost productivity, and enhance the comfort of your work. At this point, you might discover that Adobe Illustrator supports scripts, but you may not know how to install or use them. This article will guide you on how to work with scripts, what they are, the different types, how to run them, and where to find resources to write your own scripts.

Installing and Running Scripts

Standard Installation and Running of Scripts

Windows

Place your scripts in the following directory:

C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Illustrator [version]\Presets\en_GB\Scripts\

macOS

Place your scripts in the following directory:

/Applications/Adobe Illustrator [version]/Presets.localized/en_GB/Scripts

Running Scripts

1. Navigate to File → Scripts → ScriptName.jsx in Adobe Illustrator.
2. Alternatively, go to File → Scripts → Other Scripts.., and select the desired script.
3. You can also simply drag and drop the script file into the program.

Alternative Methods for Installing and Running Scripts

You can run and manage scripts using additional extensions for Illustrator, such as LAScripts, Scripshon Trees, and ScriptBy (for older versions of Illustrator). Among these, I recommend using LAScripts due to its extensive features that other extensions lack. With LAScripts, you can run, edit scripts, and manage other files without leaving Adobe Illustrator.

For more details about the features and operation of the LAScripts extension, visit here.

Run Scripts from Anywhere

To run a script from the LAScripts panel:

1. Add a folder containing your scripts to LAScripts.
2. Double-click on the script you want to run, or select it and click the Run button.
3. You can also use the editor to write a piece of code and run it, which is useful for testing or debugging scripts.

Types of Scripts

There are two main types of scripts:

1. With an Interface: These are more user-friendly and well-thought-out scripts designed for ease of use.
2. Without an Interface: These scripts are typically used for quick launches and are often assigned to hotkeys for immediate execution without interrupting your workflow.

Writing Your Own Script for Adobe Illustrator

To write your own script, you need to know one of the following programming languages: JavaScript, VBScript (Microsoft Visual Basic Script Edition), or AppleScript. The primary resource for scripting is the Official Adobe Handbook, which contains almost everything you need. Additionally, you can visit forums and other resources for further guidance:

Useful Documentation and Resources

• ScriptUI Documentation: Detailed information on ScriptUI Classes.
• Core JavaScript Classes: Documentation for core JavaScript classes used in scripting.
• Execute Menu Commands List: A list of all executable menu commands.

Additionally, you can join the Telegram group Ne_znal_talk for script suggestions, advice, and problem-solving, as well as the Ne-znal-ai Telegram channel for tips and life hacks for Adobe Illustrator.

Summary

• Installing Scripts: Use the standard or alternative methods to install, or simply drag and drop the script into the program.
• Writing Your Own Scripts: Utilize the official reference book, seek answers on forums, and join relevant Telegram groups for support.
• Learning from Others: Review scripts by other authors to save time and avoid common pitfalls.

Good luck with your scripting endeavors, and may you find the process both productive and enjoyable!