AutoIt

AutoIt is a powerful scripting language that shares a lot so similarities with BASIC. That is also the reason BASIC users will have an easy time getting around AutoIt's syntax. Apart from simulating mouse movements, clicks, or keystrokes, this package can also be used for compiling scripts or building GUIs.

As most scripts are simple text files, one can deploy any text editor to manage their items. Still, AutoIt comes with its own editor, SciTE. SciTE supports full syntax highlighting as well as script tidying and syntax checking.

AU3 scripts can be easily converted to EXE, making them standalone tools. The first criterion before starting to compile is getting rid of syntax errors. During the compilation process, the syntax is not checked, thus running the risk of creating broken, or error-ridden executables. Scripts can be compiled via the command line or through Aut2Exe, a dedicated UI found within the pack.

AutoIt was once designed for configuration and automation purposes, but it went from that to a fairly polished language that supports complex expressions, functions, loops, etc. For example, you can build a user interface from scratch. If you are a beginner and would like to experiment with GUI creation within a safe environment, AutoIt offers you all the information you need in the Help file.

This toolbox lets you deploy accurate actions no matter whether they must move windows, resize or hide them. What once were real hindrances for scripts, are now gone. Even check boxes, list boxes, or button combinations are no obstacles to your automation routines.

AutoIt can deal with scripts, that is a given, yet what comes with this installer is more than a script manager. This powerful solution has a lot of tricks under its sleeve, especially for the veteran scripters out there. However, AutoIt can also be seen as a launching pad for those who barely dipped their toes regarding automation, as it comes with hefty and complete documentation on most matters.