In such a case when you enable macros, the template might play-out animations in a set sequence automatically. Let’s say, you downloaded an animated PowerPoint template which might require enabling macros. If you’re still confused about what a macro can do in an MS Office file, then here is an example. Macros for Office applications are written using a programming language called Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). Macros in Microsoft Office applications like PowerPoint, Word and Excel are used to automate different functions to make it easier for end users to perform certain tasks or to display different types of content. There are a plethora of ways in which macros are used, ranging from use in Word, Excel and PowerPoint files to sequencing of mouse and keyboard strokes, as well as use in C and assembly (programming) languages. A simple explanation for a lay user would be that macros are used to automate tasks to make software less repetitive in its functions. In this post we will take a look at what is a macro, with specific emphasis on Microsoft Office files.Ī macro is simply a pattern that specifies how a sequence of functions are to be performed. But macros aren’t exclusive to Microsoft Office files, as a macros are widely used by programmers around the world for various programming related tasks.

You might also have noticed that the prompt also comes with a warning that enabling macros can be harmful for your computer. You might have downloaded an Office template and received a prompt to enable macros.

What is a macro in excel 2013