CHAPTER 42
Introducing Visual Basic for Applications

---

IN THIS CHAPTER

• Introducing VBA macros
• Creating VBA macros
• Recording VBA macros
• Writing VBA code
• Learning more about VBA

---

This chapter introduces the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macro language—a key component for users who want to customize and automate Excel. This chapter teaches you how to record macros and create simple macro procedures. Subsequent chapters expand upon the topics in this chapter.

Introducing VBA Macros

A macro is a sequence of instructions that automates some aspect of Excel so that you can work more efficiently and with fewer errors. You may create a macro, for example, to format and print your month-end sales report. After you write the macro, you can then execute it every month. Not only does this save you from having to repeat the formatting steps every month, it also ensures that the exact same formatting is applied.

You don't have to be a power user to create and use simple VBA...