How to create macros
Level of difficulty: Easy
Macros can be defined as single, user-defined command that is a part of an application and executes a series of commands to perform a given task. It is a line of code written as part of a computer program. Macros can also be created by recording the task or creating a script in Notepad. In other words, it can be said that it allow you to run repetitive tasks with a mouse click.. The task is performed much quicker through a macro thereby preventing errors. This saves time as it replaces manual commands. Sometimes macros are assigned for simpler works like adding just names or addresses into a word processor. Sometimes they are used for certain complex actions like “launching a program, copying data from it, activating another program, pasting the data into it and repeating this several times”.
Materials Needed:- Specialized software
Step 1
Creating Macros 1) Macros can be assigned by recording the keystrokes and mouse movements. 2) The second method is to use the Quick Wizards which will guide you through a series of questions build a macro by asking a set of questions. 3) It is also possible to create own macros with the help of Scripting Editor or Direct Editor. There are several ways to create macros .One is a new freeware called Auto Hot Key, with which macros can be created and scheduled to run with the help of task-scheduling feature available in Windows XP.
Step 2
Some more points to remember: A 'Hot Key' is defined as a set of keys on the keyboard that helps to make the macro functional. This can be CTRL+ALT+R or CTRL+F12 or any number of combinations.
Step 3
A ShortKey denotes a small string of characters. When a 'matching combination' is keyed in from the keyboard, it is erased and the assigned macro starts operating.
Step 4
For Window Activation, a macro runs when a specific window comes up on your computer.
Step 5
A macro may be made operational by clicking on a specific area of the screen with the left, right or middle Mouse button.
Step 6
A Popup Menu or Floating Menu is basically a list of defined macros. Once the list is displayed, click on the desired macro or press an associated number or letter to execute the macro.
Step 7
A Control Activated macro allows the user to start a macro when a specific Window Control, such as a button, edit box, etc., is activated..