In today's workshop, we will be exploring the use of macros in Microsoft Excel 2016, part of the Microsoft Office 2016 office suite. A macro is a series of recorded instructions which mimic the actions required to perform a task. Excel allows a series of actions to be recorded as they are performed, which it then translates into Visual Basic for Applications, or VBA, code for that macro. If a task must be performed repeatedly in Excel, a macro for that task will perform it with precision and consistency.
We'll learn how to create basic macros, how to edit the Visual Basic relating to these macros and security considerations when using macros in Excel. To do this, we will be using a workbook that is designed to track purchases for a small business.
What You Should Already Know
You should have taken Excel 2016: The Basics or have the equivalent skills. Specifically, you should already know how to:
- enter data into cells
- use built-in functions
- sort and filter lists
What You Will Learn
Macros can customize Excel to easily perform complex tasks. This module will introduce you to basic Excel macro concepts. Specifically, you will:
- create simple macros to automate complex actions
- learn about macro security issues
- assign a macro and a keyboard shortcut to the Quick Access Toolbar
- edit macros
What You Will Need to Use These Materials
To complete this module successfully, you will need:
- Microsoft Excel 2016
- the exercise files, which will be in the upper right corner of the page if they are required
Finding Help
If you have computer-related questions not answered in these materials, you may look for the answers in the UITS Knowledge Base.
Want to Learn More?
IT Training offers many training options for extending your skills beyond this workshop:
- Self-study training: You may access computer-based training from leading commercial vendors, obtain the materials for other IT Training workshops, or access IT Training's own tutorials on a range of topics.
- IT Training Tips weblog: Our award-winning blog has short tutorials and training posts on a broad range of topics and technologies that you may read and comment on. It's written by training and support providers from across the entire IU system.