Plain Language Script Parser

This is an “out there” feature request, but please hear me out. Although YAML is far more readable then XML, Javascript, JSON etc., its rigid structure still makes it difficult for laymen and novices to write and understand their scripts. How about a feature that auto-generates YAML by parsing a plain text file? The script creator could use notepad or their favorite editor of choice. They could use plain language and some basic if-then logic to describe their automations. The parser would go line-by-line creating YAML. If it doesn’t understand something it could pop up and question the line. After complete, the automation/script could be presented in the Home Assistant visual editor for the end user to approve and implement or edit and change.

FJ

Even parsing a strict language such as for example airport METAR or TAF is rather challenging.
Parsing human text is in my opinion out of the question, even more if it’s as advanced as automations.

Isn’t the GUI the script parser?

Hey, I did say this was “out there” and I certainly didn’t say it was going to be easy. :slight_smile: The new GUI is a great improvement. But when you think out it, each “step” of an automation is an action on an object, and an automation and/or script is nothing more that a series of these single object-actions. Perhaps if some plain text parsing is able to decode these object-actions, it may not be as far-fetched as it sounds. If so, it may be possible in the not too distant future that a voice interface could be used… “Hey Home Assistant, at 10 minutes after sunset turn on the Driveway Flood lights to 80% brightness and the Front Door light to 50% brightness”.

OK, I am a dreamer.

fj

I would suggest looking into Node Red.
The visual approach it has makes it a lot easier to do even high complex automations.