AppleScript: The Missing Manual

This book is loaded with information from A-Z in AppleScript. I am a programmer. I read the other reviews by programmers who said the book "wasn't enough". This book is the best on the market for AppleScript and if you are starting out writing applications in AppleScript Studio. I couldn't hail it enough.

Title: AppleScript, The Missing Manual Author: Adam Goldstein Publisher: Pogue Press/O'Reilly & Associates, February, 2005 ISBN: 0-596-00850-3 Reviewed by: Curt Blanchard, Tucson Macintosh Users Group Apple introduced AppleScript in 1993 as a way of automating repetitive Mac chores. Over the years, it has evolved to the point where nearly everything the Mac does can be scripted. Instead of arcane programming code, AppleScripts are written in English partly because its roots are in HyperCard. However, getting the terminology and syntax right requires a good, clear understanding of the AppleScript language. Once again, O'Reilly Press rides to the rescue with another in their excellent Missing Manual series. This at-your-own-pace book begins with the basics of everyday scripting tasks and takes the reader through lists, network scripting, databases and ends with a very detailed power-user section. This approachable book is written in an enthusiastic, good-humored style (funny, even); important with a subject as intimidating as this. The examples and thoughtful tutorials are exceptionally clear. The author, Adam Goldstein deserves special mention - he's only 17 years old! In his foreword, David Pogue tells about meeting Goldstein when he was only 14 and how impressed he was. He has already been involved in several O'Reilly books even though he's still a high school student in New Jersey. There can be no questions about his bright future. If you are new to AppleScript or an old hand, this well written book is highly recommended. --Curt Blanchard Tucson Macintosh Users Group

AppleScript: The Missing Manual provides hands-on experiences to learn scripting. This is truly the "Missing Manual" for those wanting to automate their Macintosh. As with other Missing Manuals on-line scripts are available with the author providing step-by-step guidance. The Overview explains Script Menu, how to use the Script Editor, and guides readers into the world of Scripting. Readers modify existing scripts and write their first AppleScript. This Missing Manual enables readers build proficiency by modifying existing scripts in preparation to enter each new chapter. The author helps novices gain confidence as their skill level matures. With this publication readers are empowered to advance their skill level at their own pace. For those wanting to maximize benefits of a Macintosh, AppleScript: The Missing Manual is a must have.

Book Review: AppleScript: The Missing Manual By Frank Petrie Author: Adam Goldstein Publisher: Pogue Press/O'Reilly Price: $24.95 USD Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Power-User Rating: Five out of Five stars Do you work for your computer or does your computer work for you? I should hope its the later. If not, you might want to pick up a copy of AppleScript: The Missing Manual and show your Mac who's the boss. Another entry in the ever popular 'Missing Manual' series , Mr. Goldstein, the teenage founder of GoldfishSoft, manages to take you from an overview of AS's underpinnings in Panther (OS X.3) to as far as you care to get involved with the Script Editor. There's examples of some of the most common repetitive functions accompanied with scripts, thorough explanations, graphics and sidebars. You are also instructed how to download the "Missing CD," which contain all of the examples and exercises from the book. The book is broken down into four major sections: * AppleScript Overview - where the glaze is wiped from your eyes and all your fears dissipated * Everyday Scripting Tasks - actual hands-on scripting with applications that you probably use on a daily basis * Power-user Features - learn how to get the most out of your scripts so your computer does the work while you sit out side on the porch experiencing daylight * Appendixes - Part One, lists OS X friendly scriptable programs; Part Two, how to move your old HyperCard scripts into AppleScript; Part Three - references to more books and websites The author writes in such a calming voice that actually makes this manual a page turner! You'll be amazed at how easily you learn AS as he builds upon each successive lesson. And if you've never delved into scripting functions for your Mac, you'll be amazed at just how powerful this unheralded application can be. And how much you'll want to roll up your sleeves are get immediately to work. This may be the push that you need to start getting under the hood and fine tuning your machine to be the Mac of your dreams. Pros: Easy to read and follow; be the envy of your friends by knowing the meaning of boolean Cons: This could be the start of a major addiction; I'm old enough to be the author's father ============================================= ©2005 Frank Petrie - Freelance writer, Macsimum News contributing editor, Curmudgeon

I saw Adam do a presentation on AppleScript at the O'Reilly booth during MacWorld SF '05 and was so impressed that I bought the book. As webmaster of "Doug's AppleScripts for iTunes", I'm frequently asked to recommend a good AppleScript book for beginners and this is it. It covers everything you need to know to get started AppleScripting right away, and will even teach some old hands new tricks. I highly recommend it.