Learn AUTOLISP with Real Code Examples

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.

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

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

Main LISP script (.lsp)

Support function libraries

Configuration files or constants

Documentation and usage guide

Optional external data files (CSV, TXT)

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

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

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

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

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