Modify an Existing Macro: MS Word

Sometimes after you have recorded a macro, you can't remember the name or it doesn't do exactly what you wanted it to do or you want another macro that is almost the same.

Luckily, all of these things can be taken care of. You can change an existing macro by changing its name, making a copy of it, deleting it or changing the actions of the macro.

Macros are recorded in a programming language called Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). The VBA program can be changed to modify the action of the macro. The language may be confusing at first, but a closer look will show you that the code echoes the selections you made while recording the macro.

To delete a macro, follow the handy steps below:

1. Choose Tools | Macro | Macros.
    
2. Select the macro you wish to delete.
    
3. Click Delete.
    
4. Click Close.

You can make changes to an already existing macro by following the steps below:

1. Choose Tools | Macro | Macros.
    
2. Select the macro.
    
3. Click Edit.
4. Close the window.

The change is automatically saved.

Most often, it is easier to record the macro again from the beginning than modifying the Visual Basic code.

In my next article, I'll explain how to rename a macro and copy a macro.

(c) Carol Bratt, all rights reserved. Used with permission. Duplication is forbidden without express consent of author. Visit Carol's web site to learn more tips like this one!