Learn JS for Illustrator

[Frip]

Hello,

I would like to learn how to use Javascript for Illustrator. What do you think would be the most appropriate training?

Thanks for your help !

[Doug A Roberts · Accepted solution]

This document is an introduction to scripting (including JS) for AI that used to be available through adobe, but I can no longer find on the developer site:

https://ai-scripting.docsforadobe.dev/

After that, your best resource is the scripting reference, available in the downloads section of the developer site:

https://developer.adobe.com/

If you also need to learn non-Illustrator specific JS, there are numerous resources on the internet and I don't feel qualified to recommend any single one.

[Frip]

Thank you very much for your answer. My question was more about the specificity of the training. Front End - Back End. I have never done any code and I would like to be sure not to go in the wrong direction.

[Doug A Roberts]

I'm not sure what you mean by specificity? Any basic JS training will be helpful if you are starting from scratch.

[femkeblanco · Accepted solution]

Do you know any JavaScript?  Before trying to manipulate the Illustrator-specific object model, you need to know the basics of JavaScript (variables, primitive vs. reference types, control statements, functions and objects, including arrays). 

[Frip]

No, I've never done JavaScript.

I would like to train / learn (from the start).

In the end I don't want to make a website, I want to use it with illustrator. 

But you just gave me some starting points 😉 Thank you!

[marliton · Accepted solution]

Hi. There are several foundational Javascript courses in Linkedin Learning, Udemy, etc.

[CarlosCanto · Accepted solution]

check this thread

https://community.adobe.com/t5/illustrator-discussions/scripting-tutorials-for-beginners/m-p/1077114...

..and this excellent youtube channel

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGdgrP7azUQ&list=PL0qACgPuF8dWBg2tGMrOCBB4QPaD6CoUC

[Frip]

Yes I know this guy. This is exactly what I want to learn to do!
Thanks !!

[femkeblanco · Accepted solution]

A word of advice. JavaScript underwent a major revision in 2015 with version ES6. The version used in Illustrator scripting is ES3. All the new ES6 features will not work in Illustrator. If possible, find a pre-2015 source to learn from.

[Frip]

Thanks a lot for the advice !!

[Wilson Faustino]

As far as I know, Photoshop scripts do accept some ES6 features. And they encourage developers to use Spectrum in UXP.
There's' a roadmap for this kind of implementation in Illustrator?

[femkeblanco]

UXP is not available for Illustrator. 

[CarlosCanto]

UXP is not available for Illustrator yet, coming soon hopefully.