Mastering Macros: Automate Repetitive Tasks in Microsoft Excel

Microsoft’s data entry software is a formidable spreadsheet program; but, it can be very boring to work with if all that you do is repetitive tasks. The solution would be to use macros. 
These are like small computer programs that you can write within the context of Excel in order to automate such tasks thus saving time and efforts.

The tutorial covers:

1. Macros basics in Excel
2. How to record a simple macro
3. How to edit and customize a macro
4. Some tips on using macros well

Whom is this tutorial for?

This tutorial is ideal for individuals who regularly use Excel and would like to streamline their processes. If you’re either a novice or an intermediate user, then you can take advantage of learning how macros function.

Getting Started:

To begin with, enable the Developer tab in Excel. This tab contains macros working tools. 

Here’s how you go about it:

• Go to File > Options
• Click Customize Ribbon
• Check the box beside Developer on the right pane
• Click OK
• Recording Your First Macro:
• Under the Developer tab,
• Select “Record Macro.”
• Provide your macro with an identifying name and click OK.

Now carry out certain operations that you want your worksheet formulas automated based on these steps as recorded by excel.

Upon completion, click “stop Recording” button found under the “Developer” tab.
Playing Back and Editing Your Macro:
Click on the Developer tab on top and then choose Macros button for your macro to run.
Select Run after choosing your macro from the list.

Editing Your Macro: 

Instead of recording, you can also edit the macro code directly which provides more control and customization at a granular level.
You have to click on Macros again.
Choose Edit when you see your macro.

Here is where you will open the Visual Basic Editor (VBE) window that shows the recorded macro code.

In this area, you can:
• Comment in order to explain what different portions of the code are doing. 

• Fine-tune your macro’s behavior by editing the recorded steps. 

• Learn few tips that may help improve your mastery in macros.

 • Start small and then gradually move up. Once you are comfortable with macros, automate more complex routines.

 • Security is important. Only execute trusted macros. 

These steps and tips will make you a master of macros in Microsoft Excel within no time hence saving time as well as energy taken by those repetitive tasks!