Writing JSFL Scripts

In this section, we explore the use of JSFL scripts in Animate. Using JSFL scripts will allow the automation of certain tasks that can be run with a menu-based command within an Animate document. These scripts can generate objects, or they can manipulate objects that already exist within a document. In our example for this chapter, we’ll create a randomly generated splatter pattern across a document using JSFL.

This is one of those features that users will often hear about but never actually explore. JSFL scripts can not only improve workflows when dealing with repetitive tasks but can also be used to encapsulate specific procedures to share with others.

All of the JSFL commands can be executed and managed by selecting Commands from the application menu:

Figure 13.20 – The Commands menu

You have a number of different options here, but any installed JSFL scripts will appear in the lower portion of the Commands menu...