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I am relatively new to the mac, and other than writing python scripts I can't figure out how to automate certain tasks like I would have in windows with a batch file.

Pointers and links to documentation would be appreciated.

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The traditional way of scripting Mac OS X is via AppleScript. You can look through Apple's developer documentation, and there are various tutorials around the Internet too:

A simpler option is to use Automator, which allows you to create workflows for data and programs, so it's like graphical batch file creation. Some Automator tutorials:

If you're doing something heavily Unixy, you also have access to the Bourne shell, Perl, and (as you already know) Python. It'll be more difficult to manipulate other Mac programs this way, but you have all the text processing utilities you could ask for.

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I am doing "unixy" stuff. Of the three you mention (Bourne shell, Perl and Python), is any one a stand out "right" way or does it just depend on personal preference? – Jason Webb Jun 12 '10 at 5:38
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Whatever you're most familiar with is probably the best option. There's no reason not to use it if it works =) – Stephen Jennings Jun 12 '10 at 5:44
Thanks for the help. – Jason Webb Jun 12 '10 at 5:53
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