Training and Consultancy - Introduction to Excel Macros

INTRODUCTION

This training session is designed to give participants a practical, grounded introduction to the use of macros in Microsoft Excel. It moves beyond merely clicking buttons to help delegates understand the concepts that underpin effective macro use and automation. The focus will be on empowering users to record macros, manage where they are stored, and apply simple logic to make repetitive tasks faster and more reliable.

This Introduction to MS Excel Macros session will explore:

✔ how macros fit into the Excel interface and when they are most useful
✔ enabling macros and managing security settings
✔ how the choice of storage location affects sharing and reuse
✔ recorded macro mechanics and how Excel interprets user actions
✔ the difference between absolute and relative references
✔ basic error identification and resolution
✔ a gentle introduction to the underlying code (VBA)
✔ how to add control elements such as buttons to run macros

OBJECTIVES

By the end of this half-day workshop, participants will be able to:

✔ Enable and use macros within an Excel worksheet
✔ Understand where macros are stored and the implications for sharing workbooks
✔ Record macros and recognise how Excel captures actions
✔ Distinguish between absolute and relative references and use them effectively
✔ Apply keyboard shortcuts within macros to streamline tasks
✔ Identify and resolve common errors in recorded macro code
✔ Understand the basic structure of VBA and how it relates to macro actions
✔ Use online resources to support learning and development
✔ Add control buttons to run macros directly from a worksheet

TRAINING METHODOLOGY

This session is a practical workshop that combines demonstration, guided hands-on practice, and discussion. Participants will work with example Excel files to record macros, inspect the VBA code behind them, and experiment with variations. Real-world scenarios will be used throughout to ground learning in the everyday tasks participants face.

The format includes:

✔ Step-by-step demonstrations in Excel
✔ Practical exercises using sample datasets
✔ Time to experiment with recorded macros and VBA
✔ Troubleshooting examples to reinforce learning

By the end of the morning, attendees will have created and tested their own macros and feel comfortable applying what they have learned in their own work.

ORGANISATIONAL IMPACT

Employees who routinely use Excel can save significant time and reduce errors by automating recurring tasks. Organisations benefit when staff:

✔ spend less time on repetition and more on analysis
✔ produce workbooks that function consistently when shared
✔ understand the risks and controls associated with macros
✔ can support colleagues in basic automation tasks

PERSONAL IMPACT

Delegates will leave with confidence in the basic macro features of Excel and a clear path for developing their skills further. Specifically, participants will:

✔ be able to create and adjust simple macros independently
✔ understand how to combine recording with thoughtful reference choices
✔ gain familiarity with inspecting and troubleshooting macro routines
✔ have an entry point into learning VBA for deeper customisation

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This course is designed for Excel users who want to automate repetitive tasks, improve efficiency, and begin using simple macro automation confidently. It is especially suitable for:

✔ Administrators and business support staff who spend significant time in Excel
✔ Analysts and data workers looking to reduce manual steps
✔ Managers and team leads who want to share efficient processes
✔ Anyone with regular, repeatable Excel tasks

COURSE OUTLINE

Introduction to macros and the Excel interface
Enabling macros and understanding trust settings
Where macros are stored (workbook vs personal macro workbook)
Recording macros: practice and pitfalls
Absolute vs relative references in recordings
Keyboard shortcuts and macro efficiency
Viewing and resolving simple macro errors
Introduction to VBA structure and simple code concepts
Concept of looping actions within macros
Adding control buttons for running macros

PRE-REQUISITES

✔ Basic working knowledge of Microsoft Excel
✔ Microsoft Excel installed on the participant’s machine
✔ Comfortable with keyboard and mouse skills

DURATION

⏳ 3 Hours

This session provides a practical and insightful introduction to statistical tests for two-group comparisons, equipping participants with the tools to apply, interpret, and critically assess statistical analyses in their work.

CERTIFICATION

Upon successful completion of this session, participants will receive a John Varlow | Training and Consultancy Certificate of Completion recognising understanding and practical ability with Excel macros. .