Macros vs. AutoCorrect

Question

Why use Macros when you can use AutoCorrect? What would be some examples needing to use a Macro?

Answer 1

Hello Anonymous,

The main difference is that AutoCorrect stores a replacement, while a macro stores a procedure.

AutoCorrect is best when you want a short trigger to turn into fixed text as you type. For example, addr1 can become your full address, or teh can be corrected to "the." It's quick to set up under File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options, and it doesn't need macro security settings. For longer formatted content such as tables, headings or images, Building Blocks usually work better.

A macro is worth using when Word needs to carry out steps or make decisions. For example, it can:

1. Accept all tracked changes, remove comments, and save a PDF copy in one click
2. Find every instance of a term and format it
3. Put brackets or quotes around the selected text
4. Process every document in a folder

As a simple rule, if you're thinking "when I type this, replace it with that," use AutoCorrect. If you're thinking "do these steps for me," use a macro.

I hope this helps. Looking forward to your reply.

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