<!--
{
  "availability" : [
    "macOS: 10.4.0 - 10.15.0"
  ],
  "documentType" : "symbol",
  "framework" : "Quartz",
  "identifier" : "/documentation/Quartz/QCPlugIn/startExecution(_:)",
  "metadataVersion" : "0.1.0",
  "role" : "Instance Method",
  "symbol" : {
    "kind" : "Instance Method",
    "modules" : [
      "Quartz"
    ],
    "preciseIdentifier" : "c:objc(cs)QCPlugIn(im)startExecution:"
  },
  "title" : "startExecution(_:)"
}
-->

# startExecution(_:)

Allows you to perform custom setup tasks before the Quartz Composer engine starts rendering.

```
func startExecution(_ context: (any QCPlugInContext)!) -> Bool
```

## Parameters

`context`

An opaque object , conforming to the [`QCPlugInContext`](/documentation/Quartz/QCPlugInContext) protocol, that represents the execution context of the `QCPlugIn` object. Do not retain this object or use it outside of the scope of this method.

## Return Value

<doc://com.apple.documentation/documentation/Swift/false> indicates a fatal error occurred and prevents the Quartz Composer engine from starting.

## Discussion

The Quartz Composer engine calls this method  when your custom patch starts to render. You can optionally override this execution method to perform setup tasks.

---

Copyright &copy; 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)