Abstract: A process permitting a work to be machined alternately using two different spindles of a multi-spindle lathe is disclosed. A transfer process by which the work is transferred between spindles is further added to the automatic programming scheme. The automatic programming apparatus accepts the instructions and allows implementation through interpretation of the instructions and processing of data in the instruction and field and/or in a separate storage. Therefore, machining the work using two spindles and transferring the work enabled with a straightforward input that can be easily understood and through the use of a single program. Conventional machining can be effected without the programmer having to be constantly conscious of which head or spindle is being employed.