MACOS AppleScript - Automate Mouse Clicks and Key Presses in Chrome or Games

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through using AppleScript to automate mouse clicks and key presses in macOS, specifically for applications like Chrome or games. Automating repetitive tasks can enhance productivity and efficiency, making this a valuable skill for users looking to streamline their workflow.

Step 1: Setting Up Script Editor

• Open the Script Editor application on your Mac. You can find it by searching in Spotlight (press Command + Space and type "Script Editor").
• Familiarize yourself with the interface, which consists of a script area and an event log.

Step 2: Writing Your First Script

• Start by creating a new script. In the Script Editor, enter the following basic script to simulate a mouse click:

  tell application "System Events"
      click at {100, 200}
  end tell
  

  • This script clicks at the screen coordinates (100, 200). Adjust these numbers to target different areas on your display.

Step 3: Automating Key Presses

• To automate a key press, you can modify the script as follows:

  tell application "System Events"
      keystroke "a"
  end tell
  

  • This example simulates pressing the 'A' key. Change the letter to automate different keystrokes.

Step 4: Combining Mouse Clicks and Key Presses

• You can create a more complex script to perform a sequence of actions. For example:

  tell application "System Events"
      click at {100, 200}
      delay 1 -- waits for 1 second
      keystroke "b"
  end tell
  

  • This script clicks at the specified coordinates, waits for one second, and then presses the 'B' key.

Step 5: Testing Your Script

• Click the "Run" button in the Script Editor to test your script.
• Ensure the application you are automating is in the foreground and ready to receive inputs.

Step 6: Saving Your Script

• Once you are satisfied with your script, save it by going to File > Save.
• Choose a suitable name and ensure the format is set to "Script."

Step 7: Creating an Application from Your Script

• To run your script easily, save it as an application:
  • Go to File > Export.
  • Select "Application" from the File Format dropdown.
  • Save it to your desired location.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can automate mouse clicks and key presses on macOS using AppleScript. This powerful tool allows for significant time savings and efficiency in your daily tasks. Experiment with different scripts and actions to maximize your automation capabilities. Happy scripting!