Learn Solidworks-api - 10 Code Examples & CST Typing Practice Test
SolidWorks API is a COM-based programming interface that allows developers to automate, customize, and extend the SolidWorks CAD software, enabling tasks from simple macros to complex design automation and integration with external systems.
Learn SOLIDWORKS-API with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 27, 2025
Learning Path
Learn SolidWorks fundamentals
Understand VBA or .NET programming
Explore SolidWorks object model
Develop simple macros
Advance to add-in development and external integrations
Skill Improvement Plan
Week 1: Simple macros for part and drawing properties
Week 2: Automate assembly operations
Week 3: Event handling and feature automation
Week 4: Add-in development with C# or VB.NET
Week 5: Integrate with Excel, databases, and PLM systems
Interview Questions
What is the difference between a macro and an add-in in SolidWorks API?
How do you automate assembly creation using the API?
Explain event handling in SolidWorks API.
How do you access custom properties programmatically?
How do you ensure API code is compatible across SolidWorks versions?
Cheat Sheet
swApp -> main SolidWorks application object
PartDoc, AssemblyDoc, DrawingDoc -> document types
Feature -> a modeling operation
Configuration -> variant of part or assembly
CustomPropertyManager -> access custom properties
Books
Mastering SolidWorks API
SolidWorks API Automation with VBA and .NET
SolidWorks 2025 API Programming Guide
Automating SolidWorks Tasks
SolidWorks Macro and Add-in Development Handbook
Tutorials
Getting started with SolidWorks API
VBA macros for automation
.NET add-in development
Feature and configuration automation
Integrating API with Excel and databases
Official Docs
https://help.solidworks.com
https://solidworks.com/developer/api
Community Links
SolidWorks API forums
Stack Overflow SolidWorks API
LinkedIn SolidWorks developer groups
SolidWorks user groups
CAD/PLM industry communities
Community Support
SolidWorks API forums
Stack Overflow SolidWorks API section
LinkedIn SolidWorks developer groups
SolidWorks user groups
CAD/PLM industry communities
Frequently Asked Questions about Solidworks-api
What is Solidworks-api?
SolidWorks API is a COM-based programming interface that allows developers to automate, customize, and extend the SolidWorks CAD software, enabling tasks from simple macros to complex design automation and integration with external systems.
What are the primary use cases for Solidworks-api?
Automate repetitive modeling or drawing tasks. Create custom add-ins for design processes. Integrate SolidWorks with PLM/ERP databases. Generate reports and BOMs automatically. Custom tools for design validation and rule enforcement
What are the strengths of Solidworks-api?
Reduces repetitive manual CAD operations. Enables company-specific design rules and standards. Improves design productivity and consistency. Integrates seamlessly with existing SolidWorks environment. Supports complex workflows for large assemblies
What are the limitations of Solidworks-api?
Requires knowledge of COM and SolidWorks object model. Performance can be limited for very large assemblies. Learning curve for VBA/.NET or C# integration. Limited cross-platform support (Windows only). API changes between SolidWorks versions can affect macros/add-ins
How can I practice Solidworks-api typing speed?
CodeSpeedTest offers 10+ real Solidworks-api code examples for typing practice. You can measure your WPM, track accuracy, and improve your coding speed with guided exercises.