Excel How-To

How to Record a Macro in Excel

The Macro Recorder captures your mouse clicks and keystrokes, converting them into executable VBA code to save you time on routine tasks.

Step by step

1
Enable the Developer tab
Right-click anywhere on the Ribbon, select 'Customize the Ribbon', and check the 'Developer' box.
2
Start recording
Go to the 'Developer' tab and click 'Record Macro'. Give your macro a name and click OK.
3
Perform your actions
Execute the sequence of tasks you want to automate in your spreadsheet.
4
Stop recording
Return to the 'Developer' tab and click 'Stop Recording' to save the VBA code.

Always save your workbook as an Excel Macro-Enabled Workbook (.xlsm) to keep your macros.

Can I edit the recorded macro?

Yes, click 'Macros' in the Developer tab, select your macro, and click 'Edit' to open the VBA editor.