elisp

Elisp is Emacs Lisp, the scripting language built into Emacs for customization. Write functions with defun, define hooks to run code at key moments, and use advice to modify existing commands without editing their source. Evaluate expressions directly in Emacs or add them to your init file.

defun defines a function, defmacro defines a macro that transforms code at compile time, and let creates local variable bindings within an expression. Use defun for reusable logic, defmacro to reduce repetition in code generation, and let to scope temporary data.

Hooks are lists of functions Emacs runs at specific events; add your function with add-hook. Advice wraps or modifies existing functions; use advice-add to run code before, after, or around a target function. Both let you change editor behavior without forking Emacs.

Use C-h f to look up a function's signature and docstring, C-h v for variable documentation, and C-h i to browse the full Elisp manual through Emacs Info. These built-in help commands give you instant access to reference material without leaving the editor.

Yes. Write Elisp functions to automate workflows, bind them to keys, and attach them to hooks so they run automatically. Use when-let for conditional variable binding and other core constructs to build powerful automation that integrates deeply with Emacs.

No, but understanding Lisp basics helps. Elisp follows Lisp syntax and conventions, so learning its core constructs—defun, let, macros—teaches you Lisp fundamentals. Start with simple expressions like (message "Hello") and build up from there.