Save Time with Macros

At a book indexers meeting yesterday I realized that not everyone takes advantages of macros.

What is a Macro?
The Guide to Computing defines a macro as “a series of keyboard and mouse actions recorded to a single key, symbol, or name.” Macros are especially useful when you have to repeatedly perform the same series of keyboard and/or mouse actions.

Usefulness of Macros
For example, when I’m using Microsoft Word and want to format text on a page to save paper, instead of manually going through all the steps to change the page set up, format the text to two columns, and change the font size of all  the text, I record a macro of the process and use it to do the work for me.

Creating Macros in MS Word 2003
In Microsoft Word 2003, go to Tools > Macro > Record New Macro. When given the option to name your new macro it’s helpful to type in a meaningful name that helps you remember what the it does. Once the Record button is selected everything you do will be recorded in the Macro. When you’re done click on the Stop Recording button. To use your newly created macro just hit Alt + F8 and click on the Run button.

Macros in Other Software Programs
Many other software programs provide macro options that are easy to use. If you poke around in the software and can’t find the option consult the Help files and browse or search for macros.