Learn AUTOLISP with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 27, 2025
Explain
AutoLISP is embedded within AutoCAD and allows scripting for automation of repetitive tasks.
Supports creating custom commands, functions, and routines to manipulate drawings.
Provides access to AutoCAD objects, layers, entities, and properties programmatically.
Often combined with Visual LISP IDE for debugging and code management.
Widely used in architecture, engineering, and manufacturing for CAD customization.
Core Features
Functions and macros for CAD tasks
Access to AutoCAD object model
Event handling via reactors
File I/O and system operations
Error handling and debugging tools
Basic Concepts Overview
Atoms, lists, and symbols (Lisp data types)
Functions defined with (defun ...)
AutoCAD entities accessed via (entget) and (entmod)
Command creation using (defun c:CommandName ...)
Loops, conditionals, and recursion for automation
Project Structure
Main LISP script (.lsp)
Support function libraries
Configuration files or constants
Documentation and usage guide
Optional external data files (CSV, TXT)
Building Workflow
Define task to automate
Create function or command in AutoLISP
Access required drawing entities
Modify entities or properties programmatically
Test and deploy in AutoCAD environment
Difficulty Use Cases
Beginner: Simple command automation
Intermediate: Custom entity property manipulation
Advanced: Parametric drawing generation
Expert: Complex CAD batch processing
Architect: Full workflow automation with external data integration
Comparisons
AutoLISP vs VBA: AutoLISP more CAD-centric, VBA more general-purpose
AutoLISP vs .NET API: .NET provides modern language support, AutoLISP is simpler for legacy CAD scripts
AutoLISP vs Python (PyAutoCAD): Python allows external automation, AutoLISP is native inside AutoCAD
AutoLISP vs ScriptPro: ScriptPro handles batch operations, AutoLISP scripts are customizable
AutoLISP vs Dynamo: Dynamo is visual and parametric, AutoLISP is code-based scripting
Versioning Timeline
1980s - Original LISP-based extensions for CAD
1986 - AutoLISP officially introduced in AutoCAD
1992 - Visual LISP IDE introduced
2000s - Integration with newer AutoCAD releases
2010s - Enhanced debugging and 64-bit support
2020 - Continued support in AutoCAD LT and full AutoCAD
2025 - Stable AutoLISP support in latest AutoCAD versions
Glossary
Entity - Basic object in AutoCAD (line, circle, polyline)
Selection Set - Group of entities selected for manipulation
Command - AutoCAD operation callable from command line
Reactor - Event-driven automation trigger
Visual LISP IDE - Editor for AutoLISP development