CHAPTER

Introduction to
AutoLISP

Learning Objectives
After completing this chapter, you will be able to:
✓ Use basic AutoLISP functions on the command line.
✓ Locate, load, and run existing AutoLISP programs.
✓ Define new AutoCAD commands.
✓ Write AutoLISP programs using the Visual LISP Editor.

What Is AutoLISP?
AutoLISP is a derivative, or dialect, of the LISP programming language. LISP,
which is an acronym for list processing, is a high-level computer programming
language used in artificial intelligence (AI) systems. In this reference, the term
high-level does not mean complex, rather it means powerful. As a matter of fact, many
AutoCAD users refer to AutoLISP as the “nonprogrammer’s language” because it is
easy to understand.
AutoLISP is specially designed by Autodesk to work with AutoCAD. It is a flexible
language that allows the programmer to create custom commands and functions that
can greatly increase productivity and drawing efficiency.
Knowing the basics of AutoLISP gives you a better understanding of how AutoCAD
works. By learning just a few simple functions, you can create new commands that
make a significant difference in your daily productivity. Read through this chapter
slowly while you are at a computer. Type all of the examples and exercises as you read
them. This is the best way to get a feel for AutoLISP.

AutoLISP and AutoCAD

AutoLISP can be used in several ways. It is a built-in feature of AutoCAD and,
therefore, available on the command line. When AutoLISP commands and functions
are issued inside of parentheses on the command line, the AutoLISP interpreter auto-
matically evaluates the entry and carries out the specified tasks. AutoLISP functions
can also be incorporated into the AutoCAD menu as buttons, menu items, and tablet
menu picks. In addition, AutoLISP command and function definitions can be saved in
Copyright by Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 643
a file and then loaded into AutoCAD when needed. Items that are frequently used can
be placed in the acad2010.lsp file, which is automatically loaded for the first drawing
(by default) when AutoCAD starts. The acad2010doc.lsp file should contain functions
that are to be available in all concurrent drawings during a session.
AutoCAD also provides an integrated development environment for editing called
Visual LISP. Visual LISP and the Visual LISP Editor offer powerful features designed
specifically for writing and editing AutoLISP programs.
The benefits of using AutoLISP are endless. A person with a basic understanding
of AutoLISP can create new commands and functions to automate many routine tasks.
After working through this chapter, you will be able to add greater capabilities to your
menu macros. You can also enter simple AutoLISP expressions on the command line.
More experienced programmers can create powerful programs that quickly complete
very complex design requirements. Examples of possible new functions that might be
designed using AutoLISP include:
• Automatic line breaks when inserting schematic symbols.
• Automatic creation of shapes with associated text objects.
• Parametric design applications that create geometry based on numeric entry.

NOTE Ands jspois a thspo

cnb angoxu ig
cuostues tre poiust
piod agousgas on
few ousi zougosa eos
sougsgo.

For additional information on using AutoLISP, refer to Visual LISP

Programming available from Goodheart-Willcox Publisher, which
provides complete coverage of AutoLISP and Visual LISP.

AutoLISP Basics
As stated earlier, LISP stands for list processing, which indicates that AutoLISP
processes lists. In the LISP language, a list can be defined as any number of data
enclosed in parentheses. Each item in a list must be separated from other items by a
space.
When any entry is made on the command line, it is checked to see if the first
character is a parenthesis. The opening parenthesis tells AutoCAD that an AutoLISP
expression is being entered. AutoCAD then sends the expression to the AutoLISP
interpreter for evaluation. The initial input can be supplied as direct keyboard entry
or even a menu macro. The format for an AutoLISP expression, called syntax, is:
(FunctionName AnyRequiredData…)
The first item in the AutoLISP expression is a function name. A function in
AutoLISP is similar to a command in AutoCAD. Some functions require additional
information. For example, the addition function requires numeric data:
Command: (+ 2 4)↵
6
Command:
Any required or optional data for a function are called the arguments. Some func-
tions use no arguments; others may require one or more. When entering an AutoLISP
expression, it is important to close it using a closing parenthesis prior to pressing [Enter].
When you press [Enter] , the AutoLISP interpreter checks to see that the number of
opening and closing parentheses match. If they do not, you are prompted:
Command: (+ 2 4↵
(_>

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 644
The (_> prompt indicates that you are missing one closing parenthesis. In this example,
all that is necessary is to enter the single missing parenthesis and the function is
complete.
(_> ) ↵
6
Command:
When the AutoLISP interpreter evaluates an AutoLISP expression, it returns a
value. An expression entered on the command line instructs the system to return its
value to the command line, such as 6 in the previous example. If a different prompt
is active, the returned value is used as input for that prompt. For example, this next
sequence uses the result of adding two numbers as the input at the Specify radius of
circle or [Diameter]: prompt. Checking the CIRCLERAD system variable verifies that the
value returned by AutoLISP was in fact applied to the circle radius.
Command: C or CIRCLE↵
Specify center point for circle or [3P/2P/Ttr (tan tan radius)]: (pick a point)
Specify radius of circle or [Diameter]: (+ 14.25 3.0)↵
17.25
Command: CIRCLERAD↵
Enter new value for CIRCLERAD <17.2500>: ↵

Basic AutoLISP Functions

The best way to get started learning AutoLISP is to enter a few functions on the
command line and see what they do. The following discussion includes basic AutoLISP
functions that are part of the foundation for all AutoLISP programs. Practice using the
functions as you read. Then, begin using them in menus and macros. At first, these
functions and expressions will be entered on the command line. Later in this chapter,
and in Chapter 28, you will learn about creating and using AutoLISP program files.

AutoLISP Math Functions

AutoLISP provides many different mathematical operators for performing calcu-
lations. All real number calculations in AutoLISP are accurate to 15 decimal places.
AutoLISP distinguishes between real numbers and integers, handling each data type
differently. Real numbers are numbers with a decimal point, such as 1.25, 7.0, and
–0.438. Integers are whole numbers without a decimal point, such as 3, 91, and –115.
If a mathematical expression has only integer arguments, the result is returned as an
integer. If at least one real number is used, the result is returned as a real number. The
following symbols are used for the four basic math functions.

Symbol Function
+ Addition; returns the sum of all the supplied number arguments.
– Subtraction; subtracts the sum of the second through the last
number arguments from the first number argument and returns
the result.
* Multiplication; returns the product of all the supplied number
arguments.
/ Division; divides the first number argument by the product of
the second through the last number arguments.

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 645
 NOTE Ands jspois a thspo
cnb angoxu ig
cuostues tre poiust
piod agousgas on
few ousi zougosa eos
sougsgo.

Real numbers technically include integers and fractions, as well as

decimal numbers. However, in applications involving AutoLISP
and throughout this discussion, real numbers are always classified
as those that have a decimal part.

The following examples illustrate AutoLISP math expressions entered on

the command line. As you practice entering these expressions, use the following
procedure.
1. Start with an open parenthesis.
2. Separate each item in the expression with a space.
3. End the expression with a closing parenthesis.
Using these steps, enter the following expressions on the command line. If you get lost
at any time or do not return to the Command: prompt when expected, press the [Esc]
key to cancel the AutoLISP entry.
Command: (+ 6 2)↵
8
Command: (+ 6.0 2)↵
8.0
Command: (– 15 9)↵
6
Command: (* 4 6)↵
24
Command: (/ 12 3)↵
4
Command: (/ 12 3.2)↵
3.75
Command: (/ 19 10)↵
1
An “incorrect” answer is returned in the last example. The result of dividing 19
by 10 is 1.9. When only integers are supplied as arguments, the result is returned as an
integer. If the result is rounded, it rounds to 2. However, the returned result is simply
the integer portion of the actual answer. The result is not rounded, it is truncated. To
get the correct result in division expressions such as the one above, specify at least one
of the arguments as a real number.
Command: (/ 19.0 10)↵
1.9
When entering real numbers between 1 and –1, you must include the leading zero.
If the zero is not entered, you will get an error message:
Command: (+ .5 16)↵
; error: misplaced dot on input
Command:
The correct entry is:
Command: (+ 0.5 16)↵
16.5

Exercise 27-1
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 646
Nested Expressions
The term nested refers to an expression that is used as part of another expression.
For example, to add 15 to the product of 3.75 and 2.125, you can nest the multipli-
cation expression within the AutoLISP addition expression. Notice the two closing
parentheses:
Command: (+ 15 (* 3.75 2.125))↵
22.9688
Nested expressions are evaluated from the deepest nested level outward. In the
previous expression, the multiplication operation is evaluated first and the result is
applied to the addition operation. Here are some examples of nested expressions:
Command: (+ 24 (* 5 4))↵
44
Command: (* 12 (/ 60 20))↵
36
Command: (/ 39 (* 1.6 11))↵
2.21591

Significant Digits
AutoLISP performs all mathematical calculations to 15 decimal places, but only
displays six significant digits. For example, take a close look at this expression:
Command: (+ 15 (* 3.75 2.125))↵
22.9688
The actual result is 22.96875, but AutoLISP displays only six significant digits on the
command line and rounds the number for display only. This is true for large and small
numbers alike. The next example shows how AutoLISP uses exponential notation to
display larger numbers using only six digits:
Command: (* 1000 1575.25)↵
1.57525e+006
This final example uses a numeric printing function (real to string) set to show eight
decimal places in order to indicate the number is not actually rounded and that no
precision is lost:
Command: (rtos (+ 15 (* 3.75 2.125)) 2 8)↵
"22.96875000"

Exercise 27-2
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

Variables
All programming languages make use of variables to temporarily store informa-
tion. The variable name can be used in an expression anywhere in the program. When
AutoLISP encounters a variable in an expression, it uses the value of the variable to
evaluate the expression. An AutoLISP variable name cannot be made up of numeric
characters only, nor can it contain any of the following characters.
• Open parenthesis (()
• Close parenthesis ())

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 647
 • Period (.)
• Apostrophe (')
• Quotation marks ("")
• Semicolon (;)
The (setq) AutoLISP function is used to set variable values. A (setq) expression
requires a variable name and value as arguments. The following example shows an
expression that creates a variable named A and assigns it a value of 5.
Command: (setq A 5)↵
5
If you try to use an illegal variable name, an error message is returned. The following
example tries to create a variable named 2 with an assigned value of 7. Since 2 is not a
valid variable name, an error message is returned.
Command: (setq 2 7)↵
; error: syntax error
Once a valid variable name has been assigned a value, the variable can be used
in subsequent AutoLISP expressions or even directly accessed on the command line.
To access a variable value on the command line, precede the variable name with an
exclamation mark (!). For example:
Command: C or CIRCLE↵
Specify center point for circle or [3P/2P/Ttr (tan tan radius)]: (pick a point)
Specify radius of circle or [Diameter] < current>: !A↵
5
Command:
To use the value of a variable in any expression, simply include the variable in the
appropriate location. The following sequence sets and uses a series of variables.
Command: (setq A 5)↵
5
Command: (setq B (– A 1))↵
4
Command: (setq C (– A B))↵
1
Command: (setq D (* (+ A B) 2))↵
18
Look closely at the example illustrated in Figure 27-1. Find the three separate
expressions inside of parentheses. AutoLISP evaluates expression three first. The result
is applied to expression two, which is then evaluated. The result of expression two is
applied to expression one. The final evaluation determines the value of the variable D.

Figure 27-1.
Each AutoLISP (setq D (* (+ A B ) 2))
expression must
be enclosed within
parentheses. In this 3
evaluation of variable 2
D, expression 3 is 1
evaluated first, then
expression 2, and
finally expression 1.

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 648
 PROFESSIONAL TIP
When working with AutoLISP on the command line, use AutoCAD’s
command line editing features to your best advantage. Remember
that you can use the up and down arrow keys to display previ-
ously entered lines of code. Additionally, you can use the left and
right arrow keys to position the cursor to delete or insert text within
a line. You may also find it convenient to turn off dynamic input
while entering AutoLISP expressions on the command line.

Exercise 27-3
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

AutoLISP Program Files

Entering AutoLISP expressions on the command line is suitable for applications that
are simple or unique. However, when more complex expressions are required or when
the expressions you are using may be needed again, it is best to save them in an AutoLISP
program file. This can be easily accomplished using the Visual LISP Editor provided with
AutoCAD. AutoLISP programs can be more effectively developed using the Visual LISP
Editor. Creating AutoLISP program files is discussed in the following sections.
A very common feature found in most AutoLISP programs is a function defini-
tion. A function definition is a collection of AutoLISP expressions that performs any
number of tasks. The function is assigned a name that is used to activate the expres-
sions. Some function definitions create new AutoCAD command names that can be
entered at the command line.
Once written and saved, an AutoLISP program can be loaded and used when-
ever it is needed. By default, AutoCAD automatically loads the acad2010.lsp file, if it
is located in the support file search path, when you first begin a drawing session. The
acad2010doc.lsp file is loaded with each drawing that is opened. Any new AutoLISP
commands or functions that you define in this file will be available in every drawing
during a session.
An AutoLISP program file must be a “plain” text file. If you choose to edit your
AutoLISP files with a word processing program such as Microsoft Word or WordPer-
fect, be sure to save the files as “text only.” Word processing files use special codes that
AutoLISP cannot understand. However, it is recommended that you use the Visual
LISP Editor because it has tools specifically designed for use in writing and editing
AutoLISP programs.

Introduction to the Visual LISP Editor

The Visual LISP Editor provides powerful editing features. The editor is an
integrated development environment (IDE) that features AutoLISP development
tools not available in standard text editing programs. The interactive nature of the
Visual LISP Editor simplifies the task of creating AutoLISP program files. This section

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 649
provides only a brief introduction to Visual LISP. For a more detailed discussion of
the features and applications of Visual LISP, refer to Visual LISP Programming available
from Goodheart-Willcox Publisher.
The VLIDE command is used to open the Visual LISP Editor. When the Visual LISP

VLIDE
Ribbon
Manage
Editor is first displayed, it appears as shown in Figure 27-2. The windows within the > Applications
editor can be minimized or maximized. The editor itself can be temporarily closed to
return to AutoCAD as necessary. Visual LISP Editor
To create a new AutoLISP program using the Visual LISP Editor, pick the New Type
file button, select New File from the editor’s File pull-down menu, or press [Ctrl]+[N]. VLIDE
VLISP
This opens a window for an untitled document on the Visual LISP Editor desktop. See
Figure 27-3. The windows and features in the Visual LISP Editor are:
• Desktop. This is the main area of the editor window. It is similar to the main
program window in AutoCAD and can be used to relocate toolbars or windowed
components, such as the Visual LISP Console or a text editor window.
• Text editor window. Text editor windows are used to write and edit AutoLISP
programs. Different windows can be used to create new files or view existing
programs. The Visual LISP Editor provides interactive feedback as you enter
material to help you avoid errors.
• Visual LISP Console window. This window provides several functions. You
can use it to enter any AutoLISP expression to immediately see the results.
You can also enter any AutoLISP variable to determine its value. Visual LISP
commands can also be entered from this window. The text can then be copied
from the window to a text editor window.
• Trace window. This window is minimized when you first display the Visual
LISP Editor. It records a history of the functions within your program and can
be used to trace values when developing or debugging a program.

Figure 27-2.
The primary features of the Visual LISP Editor.
Pull-down New file Activate AutoCAD
menu bar button button

Desktop

Trace window Status bar Enter an AutoLISP

(minimized) expression or variable

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 650
Figure 27-3.
Picking the New file button or selecting New File from the File pull-down menu displays a text
editor window in the Visual LISP Editor.

Text editor
window

• Status bar. This area at the bottom of the Visual LISP Editor is similar to the
status bar in AutoCAD’s main program window. It provides feedback regarding
the status of the current window or application being used.
Several visual aids are provided to help identify functions as you enter text. For
example, as you construct the expressions that make up your program, a color-coding
system provides immediate feedback as you type. Text for any unrecognized items, such
as a user variable or a portion of a function, is shown in black. For example, if you enter
the (setq) function, the text is shown in black until you have entered the letters set.
Because AutoLISP recognizes the text entry as the valid function (set), a function not
covered in this book, the color of the text is changed to blue. When you have entered the
full (setq) function name, the text remains blue because AutoLISP also recognizes this
function name. The color coding can be very useful. If you enter a function name and
the text does not turn blue, you know that you have made an incorrect entry. The default
color coding system used in the Visual LISP Editor appears in the following chart.

AutoLISP Text Elements Associated Color

Built-in functions and protected symbols Blue
Text strings Magenta
Integers Green
Real numbers Teal
Comments Purple on a gray background
Parentheses Red
Unrecognized items Black

Another valuable visual aid provided by the Visual LISP Editor is instant paren-
thesis matching. When you enter a closing parenthesis in an expression, the cursor
jumps to the opening parenthesis and then returns to the current position. If the closing
parenthesis does not have a match, the cursor does not jump. This helps indicate that
a matching parenthesis is needed.
Copyright by Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 651
 Once you have entered one or more expressions in the Visual LISP Editor, you can
save the file and then test the results in the Visual LISP Console window. Or, you can
return to AutoCAD to test your results.

PROFESSIONAL TIP
If you frequently work with AutoLISP program files, you may wish
to learn more about the advanced features of the Visual LISP Editor.
Some of these advanced features include powerful formatting and
debugging tools that make your programming time much more
productive. For a complete discussion of these topics, refer to Visual
LISP Programming available from Goodheart-Willcox Publisher.

Defining New AutoCAD Commands

In this section, you will use several of the built-in AutoLISP functions to create a
new AutoCAD command. The (defun) AutoLISP function (define function) is used for
this. The syntax for this function is:
(defun FunctionName (ArgumentList)
(Expression)…
)
The function name can be any alphanumeric name and is subject to the same condi-
tions as for any variable name assigned with the (setq) function. If you prefix the func-
tion name with C:, the name can be entered on the command line in AutoCAD.
You must include an argument list in every function definition, even if the list
is empty. The argument list is used to declare local variables and, in more advanced
applications, to indicate which arguments are required by a function. For many appli-
cations, the argument list is simply left empty.
Any number of expressions can be included in a function definition. All of the
expressions contained in the definition are evaluated when the function name is called.
A very powerful, yet simple, application for a function definition is to create a
shortcut command similar to one of the command aliases in the acad.pgp file. However,
a shortcut command defined using AutoLISP can specify command options and even
multiple commands to use. Remember that the command aliases defined in the acad.pgp
file can only launch a single command; they cannot specify any command options.
This first example shows the definition for a new function named ZX. The func-
tion issues the ZOOM command and performs the Previous option.
(defun C:ZX ()
(command "ZOOM" "PREVIOUS")
)
To see this function work, enter the definition at the command line as:
Command: (defun C:ZX () (command "zoom" "previous"))↵
C:ZX
Notice that the new function name is returned by the (defun) function. The C:
prefix indicates that it can be entered at the Command: prompt.
Command: ZX↵
zoom
Specify corner of window, enter a scale factor (nX or nXP), or
[All/Extents/Window/Previous/Object] <real time>: previous
Command: nil
Command:

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 652
 When activated, defined functions return the value of the last expression evaluated
in the definition. Since the (command) function always returns a value of “nil,” this is
returned when using the ZX function. The “nil” value has no effect. You can suppress
it if you do not want it to appear each time you use a defined function. To suppress the
value, add the (princ) function using no arguments to the end of the definition:
(defun C:ZX ()
(command "ZOOM" "PREVIOUS")
(princ)
)
Entering a function definition on the command line is an inconvenient way to
define custom functions. By storing such definitions in a text file, they can be loaded
whenever needed.

PROFESSIONAL TIP
When defining new command names, keep in mind that most
AutoCAD users are one-handed typists because the other hand is
used for the pointing device. For example, when deciding on the
name for a function that performs a ZOOM Previous, it may be easier
for the user to type the [Z]+[X] key combination rather than [Z]+[P].
The [Z] and [P] keys are in opposite corners of the keyboard.

Creating Your First AutoLISP Program

As discussed earlier, a typical use for an AutoLISP program file is to hold function
definitions. An AutoLISP program file can contain a single function or it can contain
several. Many AutoLISP programs are created to perform a single group of specific
tasks. Other AutoLISP programs hold a large number of function definitions, all of
which become available when the program file is loaded. One common application
for the acad2010doc.lsp file is to create a series of function definitions for shortcut
commands used to speed up routine drafting tasks.

Writing the Program

To create your first AutoLISP program, open the Visual LISP Editor or another text
editing application and start a new document (file). Begin by entering two function
definitions into the program. The first is the ZX function from the previous example.
The second defines a command named FC (fillet corner) that sets the fillet radius to 0
and allows the FILLET command to continue.
(defun C:ZX ()
(command "ZOOM" "PREVIOUS")
(princ)
)

(defun C:FC ()
(command "FILLET" "RADIUS" 0 "FILLET" "MULTIPLE")
(princ)
)
When using the Visual LISP Editor, the final closing parenthesis is not automati-
cally “flush left.” You will need to delete the spaces added. It is a good habit to place the
final closing parenthesis flush left to help keep your program organized.

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 653
 Adding the appropriate documentation to your program files is recommended.
When a semicolon (;) is encountered in a program (except when it is part of a text
string), any information to the right of the semicolon is ignored. This enables you to
place comments and documentation in your AutoLISP programs. The example below
shows the appropriate documentation for this program file, called myfirst.lsp.
; MyFirst.lsp
; by A. Novice

;C:ZX – To key ZOOM Previous command.

(defun C:ZX ()
(command "ZOOM" "PREVIOUS")
(princ)
)

;C:FC – Fillet Corner: Sets fillet radius to 0 and

;allows FILLET command to continue.
(defun C:FC ()
(command "FILLET" "RADIUS" 0 "FILLET")
(princ)
)
After entering these functions and comments into the new LISP program, save the file
as myfirst.lsp in the AutoCAD or your user’s \Support folder.

Loading the Program

The APPLOAD command is used to load applications, such as AutoLISP program

APPLOAD
Ribbon

files, into AutoCAD. Once the command is selected in AutoCAD, the Load/Unload Manage
> Applications
Applications dialog box appears, Figure 27-4. A list of currently loaded applications
appears in the Loaded Applications tab. To load an application file, select it in the file- Load Application
selection window near the top of the dialog box. You can highlight any number of files Type
APPLOAD

Figure 27-4.
The Load/Unload Applications dialog box is used to load AutoLISP program files into AutoCAD.

Select file

Pick to load
the selected
file into
AutoCAD

Currently
loaded
application
files
Check to add
the selected
file to the
History list
tab

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 654
in the list. Picking the Load button loads the currently selected application file(s). If the
Add to History check box is activated, the loaded file(s) will be added to the list in the
History list tab. This tab provides convenient access to saved files during subsequent
APPLOAD sessions and keeps you from having to search for frequently used files every
time they are needed. Picking the Unload button removes any highlighted files from
the History list tab or Loaded Applications tab.
You can also load an AutoLISP file by highlighting the file in Windows Explorer
and dragging and dropping it into the AutoCAD drawing area. This method is
extremely convenient if Windows Explorer is open.
The (load) function allows you to load an AutoLISP program file on the command
line. This function requires an AutoLISP file name as its argument and requires that
the name be enclosed in quotation marks. To load the myfirst.lsp file using the (load)
function, the following sequence is used.
Command: (load "myfirst")↵
C:FC
Command:
When the file has a .lsp file extension, it is not necessary to include the extension in
the (load) expression. Therefore, you should use the standard .lsp file extension for all
AutoLISP files you create. If you are loading an AutoLISP file that does not use a .lsp
file extension, the actual extension must be included in the file name argument.
When an AutoLISP program file is loaded and no errors are encountered, the
result of evaluating the last expression in the file is returned to the screen. In the
example above, the last expression in the file is the definition for the FC function, so
that function name is returned.
The (load) function locates AutoLISP files residing in the support file search
path. To load a file that exists elsewhere, the path name must also be specified. In the
following example, the myfirst.lsp file is stored in the C:\My Documents\AutoLISP folder.
Command: (load "c:/my documents/autolisp/myfirst")↵
C:FC
Notice that backslashes are not used in the path specification. In an AutoLISP text
string, the backslash is used to specify special characters. For example, the string \n
indicates a new line. When specifying file paths, you can use either forward slashes,
as shown above, or double backslashes (\\). Therefore, in the example above, the file to
load could also have been specified as c:\\my documents\\autolisp\\myfirst.
If you frequently load files that are in a folder not found in the current support
file search path, it may be helpful to include the folder in the path. This is done using
the Options dialog box. After displaying this dialog box, pick the Files tab and select
Support File Search Path. Then, pick the Add… button and enter the desired folder. Refer
to Chapter 21 for detailed information.
As previously indicated, when you have defined one or more functions that you want
to have available in all editing sessions, the definitions can be placed in the acad2010doc.lsp
file. If the acad2010doc.lsp file already exists on your system, consult your system admin-
istrator or instructor prior to editing this file. The acad2010.lsp and acad2010doc.lsp files
are often used by third-party applications. Changing them or accidentally redefining
existing commands or functions may render certain features unusable.

Exercise 27-4
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 655
 Creating Specialized Functions
Although shortcut commands are a powerful use for AutoLISP, it can also be used
to create highly specialized functions. Input can specify how the program should func-
tion in any given situation. This aspect of AutoLISP allows you to customize AutoCAD
to meet the specific needs of your industry or department.
AutoLISP is a versatile tool, offering many different functions for effectively
working with numeric data, text data, data files, and AutoCAD drawing objects. This
section introduces several basic AutoLISP functions, including some that are used for
acquiring input from the user.

Providing for User Input

AutoLISP can prompt the user for various types of data. Depending on its func-
tion, a program may need numeric input, text input, or specification of a coordinate
location. The (getpoint) function prompts for a point entry and pauses the program
until the point is entered. For example:
Command: (setq PT1 (getpoint))↵
After you press [Enter] , AutoLISP waits for a value to be input for the (getpoint) func-
tion and then stores the value in the PT1 variable. A prompt can be added to the orig-
inal expression to clarify what is required:
Command: (setq PT1 (getpoint "Enter a point: "))↵
Enter a point:
Now, pick a point on screen. The coordinates for the selected point are assigned to PT1
and displayed on the command line. If you know the coordinates, you can enter them
at the keyboard.
The following example shows how closely AutoCAD and AutoLISP work together.
First, define the two variables PT1 and PT2 as shown below. Then, enter the LINE
command and use AutoLISP notation to return the values of PT1 and PT2 as the
endpoints of the line.
Command: (setq PT1 (getpoint "From point: "))↵
From point: 2,2↵
(2.0 2.0 0.0)
Command: (setq PT2 (getpoint "To point: "))↵
To point: 6.25,2↵
(6.25 2.0 0.0)
Command: LINE↵
Specify first point: !PT1↵
(2.0 2.0 0.0)
Specify next point or [Undo]: !PT2↵
(6.25 2.0 0.0)
Specify next point or [Undo]: ↵
The following is a sample function definition named 1LINE that uses expressions
similar to those given in the previous example. This function will draw a line object
based on user input.
(defun C:1LINE ()
(setq PNT1 (getpoint "From point: "))
(setq PNT2 (getpoint "To point: "))
(command "LINE" PNT1 PNT2 "")
(princ)
)

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 656
The (command) function is used to call AutoCAD commands from within AutoLISP.
Typically, an AutoCAD command that is “started” within a program is also “ended”
within the program. The pair of quotation marks near the end of the fourth line
is equivalent to pressing [Enter] after the second point entry, thus ending the LINE
command.
When developing AutoLISP routines, you may need to assign the length of a line
or the distance between two points to a variable. The (getdist) function allows you to
assign a distance to a variable. A command line prompt is not added to the following
example; the “second point” prompt is automatic.
Command: (setq LGTH (getdist))↵
(pick the first point)
Specify second point: (pick the second point)
distance
Use object snaps as needed or enter absolute coordinates. After the second point is
specified, the distance value is shown and assigned to the variable. In this example,
the distance is assigned to the variable LGTH. You can confirm the setting by retrieving
the value of the variable.
Command: !LGTH↵
distance
The (distance) function is similar to the (getdist) function. However, the (distance)
function does not require picking two points. Instead, it measures the distance between
two existing points. This function can be used to display a distance or to assign a
distance to a variable.
Command: (distance PT1 PT2)↵
distance between PT1 and PT2

Command: (setq D1 (distance PT1 PT2))↵

distance between PT1 and PT2
The first example returns the distance between the previously defined points PT1 and
PT2. The second example displays the distance and applies it to the variable D1.

PROFESSIONAL TIP
The sample AutoLISP expressions in this section are entered at the
command line. However, AutoLISP expressions are more effective
as part of a saved program file.

Exercise 27-5
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

Assigning Text Values to AutoLISP Applications

Values assigned to AutoLISP variables do not have to be numeric. In some appli-
cations, you may need to assign a word or line of text to a variable. To do so, use the
(setq) function and enclose the word(s) in quotation marks.
Command: (setq W "What next?")↵
"What next?"

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 657
 You can also assign a word or line of text to a variable with the (getstring) function.
This function is similar to the (getpoint) function in that the user must enter a value.
Command: (setq E (getstring))↵
Nothing is displayed on the command line because the optional prompt was not speci-
fied. AutoLISP is waiting for a “string” of characters. You can enter as many characters
(numbers and letters) as needed. Once you press [Enter] or the spacebar, the string
is entered and displayed. To allow spaces in the response, place the letter T, without
quotation marks, after the (getstring) function:
Command: (setq E (getstring T))↵
HI THERE↵
"HI THERE"
Command:
The (prompt) function can be used to simply display a message. The resulting
message has no variable value. AutoLISP indicates this by printing nil after the
prompt.
Command: (prompt "Select an object: ")↵
Select an object: nil
You can use prompts in AutoLISP programs to provide information or to prompt the user.

CAUTION
The symbol T is a built-in AutoLISP constant defined as a protected
symbol. However, it is possible to change its value using the (setq)
function. Do not change its value. Be certain not to use the variable
name T for any of your own variables or other functions referencing
this symbol may not properly function. If it is accidentally changed,
you can reset the value of T using the following expression.
Command: (setq T 'T)↵

Exercise 27-6
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

Basic AutoLISP Review

Before applying the functions you have learned to an AutoLISP program, take a
few minutes to review the following list. These functions are used in the next chapter,
which discusses more advanced AutoLISP applications.
• (+) , (–) , (*) , (/) . These are the basic math functions used in AutoLISP. They must
be entered as the first part of an expression. For example, (+ 6 8).
• (setq) . The (setq) function allows a value to be assigned to a variable. For
example, the expression (setq CITY "San Francisco") sets the value San Francisco
to the variable CITY.
• ! . An exclamation point entered before a variable on the command line returns
the value of the variable. For example, !CITY returns the value San Francisco for
the above expression.

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 658
 • (getpoint) . This function allows you to define a point location by entering coor-
dinates at the keyboard or using the pointing device. The resulting value can
be applied to a variable. For example, the expression (setq A (getpoint)) assigns
a point to the variable A.
• (getdist) . This function returns the distance between two points entered at
the keyboard or picked on screen. The value can be applied to a variable and
a prompt can be used. For example, the expression (setq D2 (getdist "Pick two
points:")) allows you to determine a distance and assign it to the variable D2.
• (distance) . This function returns a distance between two existing points. For
example, the expression (distance P1 P2) returns the distance between the
defined points P1 and P2. The distance can also be assigned to a variable. For
example, (setq D (distance P1 P2)).
• (getstring) . This function returns a word or string of characters entered by the
user. The resulting text can be assigned to a variable. For example, the expres-
sion (getstring) waits for a string of characters and displays the string when
[Enter] or the spacebar is pressed. Spaces are allowed in the text string if T
follows the (getstring) function. For example, the expression (setq TXT (getstring
T "Enter text:")) assigns the text entered, which can contain spaces, to the vari-
able TXT.
• (prompt) . Messages or prompts can be issued in a program using the (prompt)
function. For example, the expression (prompt "Select an entity:") prints the Select
an entity: prompt.

PROFESSIONAL TIP
Design your AutoLISP programs to closely resemble the AutoCAD
interface. For example, it is easier for the user to read “back-to-back”
prompts when the prompts appear on separate lines. Use the \n
string to specify a new line for a prompt. For example:
(setq PT2 (getpoint "\nTo point:"))

Exercise 27-7
Complete the exercise on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD

Copyright by Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.

Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 659
Chapter Test
Answer the following questions. Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper or
complete the electronic chapter test on the student website.
www.g-wlearning.com/CAD
1. What is the standard extension used for AutoLISP program files?
2. A comment is indicated in an AutoLISP file with a(n) _____.
3. When in the drawing area, what are three ways to load the contents of the AutoLISP
file named chgtext.lsp that is saved in the support file search path?
4. Define the terms integer and real number as related to AutoLISP.
5. Write expressions in the proper AutoLISP format for the following arithmetic
functions.
A. 23 + 54
B. 12.45 + 6.28
C. 56 – 34
D. 23.004 – 7.008
E. 16 × 4.6
F. 7.25 × 10.30
G. 45 ÷ 23
H. 147 ÷ 29.6
I. 53 + (12 × 3.8)
J. 567 ÷ (34 – 14)
6. Explain the purpose of the (setq) function.
7. Write the proper AutoLISP notation to assign the value of (67 – 34.5) to the variable
NUM1.
8. What does the (getpoint) function allow you to do?
9. Which AutoLISP functions allow you to find the distance between two points?
Describe the difference between the two functions.
10. Explain the purpose of the (getstring) function.
11. Write the proper AutoLISP notation for assigning the string This is a test: to the
variable TXT.
12. How do you allow spaces in a string of text when using the (getstring) function?
13. Write the proper notation for using the PLINE command in an AutoLISP
expression.
14. Which prefix must you enter before a function name in an expression to indicate
it is accessible at the Command: prompt?
15. What is a function definition?
16. Define an argument.
17. Which AutoLISP function is used to create new AutoCAD commands?
18. What is the purpose of the Visual LISP Editor?
19. When entering text in the Visual LISP Editor, which color indicates that you have
entered a built-in function or a protected symbol?
20. Explain the purpose of the \n text string in AutoLISP.

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 660
Drawing Problems
Write AutoLISP programs for the following problems. Use the Visual LISP Editor. Save the
files as P27- (problem number) with the .lsp extension.
1. Write an AutoLISP program to draw a rectangle. Use the (getpoint) function to
set the opposite corners of the rectangle. Follow these guidelines:
A. Set P1 as the first corner.
B. Set P3 as the opposite corner.
C. Use the RECTANG command to draw the rectangle using P1 and P3 in place of
picking corners.
D. The users should not be able to change any options in the RECTANG
command.

2. Create an AutoLISP program to draw a square. Follow these guidelines:

A. Set a variable for the length of one side.
B. Set the variable P1 as the lower-left corner of the square.
C. Use the RECTANG command to draw the square.

3. Revise the program in problem 2 to draw a square with filleted corners.

A. The fillet radius should be equal to 1/4 of the side length.
B. After the fillet rectangle is drawn, reset the fillet radius so the next rectangle
drawn with the RECTANG command does not automatically have fillets. Note:
Use ^C to cancel a command that you do not want to complete. For example:
(command "LINE" PT1 ^C)

4. Use the program in problem 3 to create a new command that draws a square with
thick lines.
A. The line thickness should be a percentage of the fillet radius (between 5%
and 10%).
B. Reset the line thickness so that the next rectangle drawn with the RECTANG
command does not automatically have thick lines. Note: Use ^C to cancel a
command that you do not want to complete. For example:
(command "LINE" PT1 ^C)

5. Write an AutoLISP program that allows the user to draw parallel rectangles.
A. Provide a prompt that asks the user to enter an offset distance for a second

Drawing Problems - Chapter 27

rectangle to be placed inside of the first rectangle.
B. Use the OFFSET command to allow the user to draw the parallel rectangle
inside the original without entering an offset distance.

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Chapter 27 Introduction to AutoLISP AutoCAD and Its Applications—Advanced 661