How to Run Macros Automatically: 9 Steps
Macros are a powerful way to automate repetitive tasks in programs like Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. By learning how to run macros automatically, you can save time and increase productivity. In this article, we will outline 9 steps to help you run macros automatically.
1. Create or obtain a macro: Before you can run a macro automatically, you need to have one. You can either create your own macro by recording a series of steps or download pre-made macros from the internet.
2. Open the program and file: Open the application and file where the macro is stored or where you want it to run.
3. Access the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) Editor: Press “Alt + F11” on your keyboard or click on “Visual Basic” under the Developer tab to open the VBA Editor.
4. Insert a new module: In the VBA Editor, go to “Insert” in the top menu and select “Module.” This will create a new module where you can place your macro code.
5. Write or paste the macro code: If you have written your own macro or downloaded one from the internet, paste the code into the newly created module. Make sure that you understand the purpose of each line of code before running it.
6. Identify the event or trigger: Identify which event will trigger your macro to run automatically, such as opening a workbook, saving changes, or clicking a specific button.
7. Link the event with your macro: Within your code, create a VBA subroutine that links your desired event with running your macro. For example, if you want your macro to run when opening a workbook:
Private Sub Workbook_Open()
‘ Replace “MacroName” with the name of your own macro
Call MacroName
End Sub
8. Save as an appropriate file type: Save your file as an appropriate file type that supports macros, such as an Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm), Word Macro-Enabled Document (.docm), or PowerPoint Macro-Enabled Presentation (.pptm).
9. Test your macro: Finally, test your macro by triggering the event you specified in step 6. If everything is set up correctly, the macro should run automatically when the trigger event occurs. If it does not, review your code and settings to identify and resolve any issues.
By following these 9 steps, you can successfully set up macros to run automatically in your preferred program. This can help increase efficiency and save valuable time when working with repetitive tasks.