Microsoft Access comes with a learning curve. It has a similar look and feel as other Microsoft Office products, so you should get used to the arrangement rather quickly. The next step is to learn the different terminology so that you can use the program effectively and take advantage of all it has to offer.
In this post, we are going to discuss macros, what they are and how they are used. By the end of this read, you should feel more comfortable using them!
What is a Macro?
A macro is a type of tool that lets you automate tasks and add functionality to your forms, reports and controls. In other words, it simplifies the programming language that you write. With macros, you are able to build a list of actions that you want the buttons to perform when they are clicked.
Microsoft provides this example. You add a command button to a form and associate the button’s OnClick event to a macro. Every time the button is clicked, it performs the action that you assigned to it.
In the updated software from Access, there are more options than ever to add functionality to your database without the need for code. Macros are more stable, functional and secure than ever before.
How Do I Build a Macro?
You do not need a background in programming to create a macro. It’s easier than writing VBA code, although VBA offers more flexibility.
Microsoft has a built-in Macro Builder tool that makes it easy to develop your own macro. On the Create tab, in the Other group, click on Macro. You will see that there are different fields for you to fill out.
- Macro names. If your macro object only has one macro, you do not need a name. Simply refer to it by the macro object name. If you have a macro group, you will need to assign it a unique name.
- Argument. An argument is a value that provides information about the action. Some arguments are necessary while others are optional.
- Conditions. A condition indicates the criteria that has to be met in order for the action to be performed. The expression must equal True/False or Yes/No.
- Macro actions. Access gives you a range of actions to choose from such as open report, find a record or display a message box.
If you’ve never worked with macros before, they can be confusing. Once you get used to the process, however, you’ll see that macros are an excellent way to make your tasks more efficient. In the meantime, let the Arkware team help you build your first few macros! This will save you time and frustration and get you using Access more comfortably!