---
title: "Introduction to Scripting"
url: "https://help.tabidoo.cloud/en/article/introduction-to-scripting"
language: "en"
last_updated: "2026-09-17T07:22:13.751Z"
---

# Introduction to Scripting

While Tabidoo is a low-code/no-code platform at heart, it offers powerful scripting capabilities for users who need advanced logic, dynamic interactions, or external system integrations.

Tabidoo uses JavaScript/Typescript as its scripting language, enabling customization of forms, automation of workflows, and data operations that go beyond built-in features.

## Why Use Scripting?

Use scripting when:

-   You need to pre-fill or compute values dynamically.
-   Fields must be shown or hidden based on user inputs.
-   Advanced validations are required.
-   Data must be synchronized across related tables.
-   Records need to be created or updated programmatically.
-   You want to send data to external APIs.

## Where You Can Use Scripts in Tabidoo

Tabidoo supports scripting in various contexts:

-   **Form/Record Events:** Attach scripts to the lifecycle of a form/record:
    -   *On Model Load* – Triggered when the form is opened.
    -   *On Model Change* – Runs when a field's value changes.
    -   *Before Model Save* – Executes before saving the form.
-   **Form Button:** Add buttons to form that execute custom logic.
-   **Table Button:** Add buttons above the table that execute custom logic (part of **Workflow Automation** triggers).
-   **Workflow Automation:** Use scripting in automation actions.
-   **Scripting Extensions (Shared Scripts):** Define reusable functions and logic shared across scripts.

## Key Features

-   **JavaScript-based**: Familiar to web developers, powerful for dynamic behavior.
-   **IntelliSense support**: Code suggestions via `Ctrl + Space`.
-   **Browser-compatible**: Runs in the user’s browser (or on the server for encrypted scripts).
-   **Flexible integration**: Access other tables, call APIs, or use shared functions.

## Getting Started

To begin using scripting (Form/Record Events) in Tabidoo:

-   Open the table context menu where you want to add custom behavior.
-   Select **Scripting**.
-   Choose the appropriate event (e.g., *On Model Load*).
-   Start writing your JavaScript/Typescript code:

```typescript
doo.model.yourFieldName.isVisible = doo.model.status.value === 'Closed';
```

*Example: Hide a field "yourFieldName" based on another field's value (status)*

![](https://cdn-assets.productfruits.com/953c5739-39da-4f21-9494-de1d83581e83)

*To begin using scripting*

* * *

## Debugging Tips

When working with scripts, it is often useful to inspect values or check how the `doo.model` object looks at runtime.

You can use the **browser developer console** to debug your code.

**Inspect the model object**

To see all available fields and their current values, use:

```typescript
console.log(doo.model);
```

This prints the entire model object into the browser console so you can explore its structure.

* * *

**Debug step by step**

You can pause script execution and inspect variables using the `debugger` command:

```typescript
debugger;
```

When the browser encounters this line, execution stops and the developer tools allow you to inspect variables, step through the code, and evaluate expressions.

> ⚠️ Remember to remove `debugger;` from your script once debugging is finished.

* * *

**Opening the developer console**

You can open the browser developer console using:

| Browser | Shortcut |
| --- | --- |
| Chrome / Edge | **F12** |
| Chrome / Edge | **CTRL + SHIFT + I** |
| Opera | **CTRL + SHIFT + I** |

Other browsers provide similar shortcuts.

* * *

**Tip**

If you're unsure what values are available in your script, logging the model is often the fastest way to understand the data structure.

```typescript
console.log(doo.model);
```

* * *

## Compare Scripts

The **Compare Scripts** feature allows you to compare two versions of a script directly in the script editor.

It highlights the differences between them, making it easier to review changes and see what was added, removed, or modified.  
  
![](https://cdn-assets.productfruits.com/ef1009d3-f22a-44c6-a343-71131e823869)  
![](https://cdn-assets.productfruits.com/c8ead66f-489d-4941-891f-7bcfb5b0949f)

* * *

## Next Steps

Explore related articles for deeper knowledge:

-   [Script types](https://help.tabidoo.cloud/en/article/script-types)

Scripting unlocks the full potential of Tabidoo. Whether you're customizing forms or integrating with third-party systems, it offers the flexibility needed to meet complex requirements.