Learn SOLIDWORKS-ADDINS with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 27, 2025
Learning Path
Learn SolidWorks basics and API concepts
Start with simple macros and automation scripts
Advance to event-driven automation and add-in development
Integrate add-ins with PDM/PLM or ERP systems
Develop enterprise-ready add-ins with UI and database integration
Skill Improvement Plan
Week 1: SolidWorks API basics and macro creation
Week 2: Simple add-in with button or menu command
Week 3: Event handling and custom task panes
Week 4: Integration with Excel or database
Week 5: Advanced workflows and multi-user deployment
Interview Questions
What is a SolidWorks Add-in and why is it used?
How do Add-ins interact with the SolidWorks API?
Explain event-driven automation in SolidWorks Add-ins.
How can you integrate a SolidWorks Add-in with PDM/PLM?
Describe a practical example of an automation Add-in you developed
Cheat Sheet
API - SolidWorks Application Programming Interface
Event - Trigger for executing code (e.g., document open, rebuild)
Command - Action in SolidWorks UI via add-in
Task Pane - Custom panel added by add-in
DLL - Compiled Add-in loaded by SolidWorks
Books
Mastering SolidWorks API
SolidWorks Add-ins Development Guide
Automation with SolidWorks and VBA/C#
Customizing SolidWorks for Enterprise Workflows
Advanced SolidWorks Add-in Programming
Tutorials
Getting Started with SolidWorks API
Developing Your First SolidWorks Add-in
Event-Driven Automation in SolidWorks
Integrating Add-ins with PDM/PLM Systems
Advanced Add-in Development with Custom UI
Official Docs
https://help.solidworks.com/2025/English/api/sldworksapiprogguide/
https://www.solidworks.com/product/api
https://www.solidworks.com/support
https://www.solidworks.com/developer-network
https://forum.solidworks.com/
Community Links
SolidWorks Developer Network (SDN)
SolidWorks forums and community
Stack Overflow CAD/engineering tags
LinkedIn SolidWorks Developer groups
Third-party CAD/automation training providers
Community Support
SolidWorks Developer Network (SDN)
SolidWorks forums and knowledge base
Stack Overflow / Stack Exchange CAD communities
LinkedIn SolidWorks developer groups
Third-party training and tutorials