Writing a WordBasic Macro from Scratch

Many of the tips used in WordTips rely upon macros in order to run. Some readers may not know how to enter a macro from scratch in Word. There are actually two ways you can create macros. First you can record a macro, which is appropriate when you want to record a series of steps you perform quite often. (Recording a macro will be covered in a different tip at a different time.) The second method of creating a macro, writing one from scratch, is much more powerful. To create a macro from scratch using Word 6 or Word 95, follow these steps:

1. Choose the Macro option from the Tools menu. You will see the Macro dialog box. (Click here to see a related figure.)
2. In the Macros Available In box (at the bottom of the dialog box), select where you want your new macro stored. Select Normal.dot (Global Template) if you want your macro available in all documents; select a different template if you want the macro available only with the current document template.
3. In the Macro Name box, type the name you want assigned to the macro you are writing. Optionally, you can enter information in the Description box.
4. Click on Create. You will be taken to the macro window, where you can write your macro.
5. When you are through, close the macro window by clicking on the close control in the upper-right corner of the document window. You will be asked if you want to save the macro. Respond by clicking on Yes.