The Workbench Scripting Shell provides a means for entering and executing scripts. Through the use of the scripting shell, MySQL Workbench can support new behavior and data sources using code written in Lua and Python. The shell can also be used to explore the current Workbench GRT (Generic RunTime) facilities.

The scripting shell is not only useful for expanding MySQL Workbench. You can use a script file from the scripting shell command line to perform repetitive tasks programmatically.

The development language can be either Python or Lua. The default programming language used in Workbench Scripting Shell is defined in the General tab of the MySQL Workbench Preferences dialog, and defaults to Python.