Step 1:
I have a form on a HTML page.
I want to copy all relevant fields and store in variables - available for use later.

Step 2:
In another browser window, use the fields copied and fill in another form.

Step 1: I could just analyse the HTML and get the data I suppose (this is the nest way). But is there a way I can start on field one, and simulate tabbing through each field? This is the way I am currently doing on Windows with the help of another program.

Step 2: in Windows, I use some code to simulate tabbing through the different fields and pasting in the variables stored. I'm assuming I can use Python - but don't have enough experience of this. Is there any other way?

Thanks.

I'd say yes.

For the most part a HTML server provides what the author wants you to be able to have. Modern pages don't tend to be simple text. Without knowing more I couldn't guess what is the best way to grab that data and automate it.

HTML is platform independent. If it works in Windows, it should work in Linux, etc.

If you are doing this on a web form and wonder whether you can do it on Linux, I must assume you are using some proprietary method. It might help persons answer your query to have more information about what methodology you are using now.

thanks for the replies guys.
currently i use AHK (autohotkey) - this helps me simulate just about everything on windows - including mouse movements.
there's at least one other program called autoIT that does the same (never used that one though).

it's kind of cheating...
with basic programming and using current windows interfaces... you can automate any app where you do manual repetitive tasks.

where would i start for looking up how to simulate the user filling in a form?

using AHK, you can make it pretty advanced and actually submit the entire HTML form and give the server what it's expecting. (involves using COM object of internet explorer.)
i'm assuming there will be a clever way to do using linux scripting as well...
but even though this is a better solution... no good for me... i need to be able to glance and see manually that the correct fields have been copied. so i need the simulated way described.

let me know what you think.
thanks.

IronAHK is a tool much like AHK. https://github.com/Paris/IronAHK