Maya Embedded Language Script

Professional animators use Autodesk Maya to create 3D animated scenes for use in video games, films, and television shows. If an animator who is also a programmer wants to create a macro they can use to quickly complete a repetitive or complex Maya task, they can do so using Maya's Script Editor.

After writing their script in Maya's Embedded Language, the animator can save their script as a MEL file. Then, the animator can execute their script via the Script Editor. This will automatically perform the action(s) the MEL file describes.

Animators can also use MEL scripts to customize Maya's user interface. MEL scripts may include Python code, as Maya also supports the Python programming language.

NOTE: Maya was originally developed by Alias Wavefront. Autodesk acquired Alias Wavefront in 2006.

MEL files are meant to be opened and edited in the Autodesk Maya (cross-platform) Script Editor. To open the Script Editor, select Windows → General Editors → Script Editor from Maya's menu bar. Then, to open your MEL file:

After you finish editing your MEL file, you should save it to Maya's default scripts directory. This will allow you to quickly locate and edit the file in the future.

How do I execute a MEL script?

To execute a MEL script, open it in the Script Editor and then select the Execute button.

How do I add a MEL script as a Maya shelf item?

To add a MEL script to your Maya shelf items, open the script in the Script Editor and then select File → Save Script to Shelf... .

Programs that open MEL files

Updated: July 28, 2021