How to create macros
Level of difficulty:
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”.
- Specialized software
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.
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.
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.
For Window Activation, a macro runs when a specific window comes up on your computer.
A macro may be made operational by clicking on a specific area of the screen with the left, right or middle Mouse button.
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.
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..