If you’ve never used the automation function in ProTools before it can seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, when you break it down into steps, it’s not all that bad. Once you’ve got a good handle on it, it can make your life a lot easier, not to mention open up some new creative opportunities.

Step 1: Open the plug-in (always good to start with an easy step 1!).

Step 2: Inside the plug-in window, click the "auto" button.

Step 3: A window will now open with a list of parameters that are available to be automated. Obviously the options depend on the plug-in you are attempting to automate.

Step 4: Select the parameters you want and click Add.

Step 5: Whilst in the Edit window, click the Track View Selector, and select the parameters of the plug-in that you want to automate.

Step 6: Draw the automation using the pen toll. Save, and then play it back, tweaking to taste.

There you go, that's all there is to it.