What is recording and running macros in Excel?
Recording macros in Excel is an effective way to automate repetitive tasks, saving considerable time and effort. By recording a macro, you record a sequence of actions that you can later repeat with a simple command. This is especially useful for tasks such as downloading files regularly and formatting them, performing mathematical operations, or modifying cells and columns.
How to get started with macros?
To start working with macros, you need an Excel document that is macro-enabled (.xslm). This format allows your macros to run correctly. When opening the document, make sure that the format is friendly and comfortable to work with. If you will be working frequently with this file, consider recording a macro to facilitate the formatting process.
How to record a macro?
Follow these steps to record a macro in Excel:
- Duplicate the sheet: Before you begin, make a copy of your worksheet. This will allow you to keep the original information and try again if necessary.
- Access the Scheduler tab: Go to the 'Start' menu and select 'Scheduler'. Here you will find the 'Record Macro' button.
- Assign a name and shortcut: When you click 'Record Macro', a window will open for you to assign a name, such as "Format". You can also set a shortcut to execute the macro quickly.
- Choose where to save: Decide the workbook where your macro will be saved. It is recommended to choose the same workbook you are working in.
- Macro description: Be sure to add a short description explaining the function of the macro. This is useful if you want to share or reference the macro later.
- Perform actions: Start performing the actions you want to automate. For example, adjust column widths, bold headings, center text, and hide unnecessary information.
- End Recording: Once the actions are finished, select the final cell, go to the 'Scheduler' tab and select 'Stop Recording'.
How to review and edit macros in Visual Basic?
If you want to check the actions recorded by the macro or make adjustments, you can access the Visual Basic environment from the 'Programmer' tab. In Visual Basic, you will find the name of your workbook and a new module containing the recorded macro. Although it is not necessary to edit the code unless you have advanced knowledge, this tool allows you to confirm that all actions have been recorded correctly.
How to run a recorded macro?
When you need to run a macro that you have previously recorded, here are the steps to follow:
- Access the macro menu: Go to the 'Programmer' tab and select 'Macros' in the code section.
- Select the macro: In the pop-up window, choose the macro you want to run from those listed. You can decide to view the available macros in the open books, in a specific book or only in the current book.
- Choose execution method: Decide whether you want to run the macro all at once or step by step to verify each action.
- Edit or delete: If you need to, you have the option to modify the macro by bringing it into the Visual Basic environment, or delete it if it is no longer needed.
- Execute: Make sure you are on the correct sheet where you want to apply the actions before clicking 'Execute'. You will see how the predefined formatting is applied quickly and effortlessly.
Invitation to practice
We encourage you to practice by recording and running your own macro on a movie file or any other file you wish to automatically format. Once you have done so, share a screenshot of the generated code in the Visual Basic environment in the comments to receive feedback and continue improving your Excel skills.
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