How to Create Macros in Microsoft Word

A macro is a series of key strokes that has been "recorded" and can be completed with usually one or two keys. An excellent example of what a macro can be used for is to easily repeat the name of a character that you want to use again and again for writing the dialogue. For example, in the picture below, Irving's and Annie's name is repeated over and over every time they speak. By using a macro, you can repeat their name with just one or two key strokes.

How to Create a Macro

1. Open your play that you have started in Microsoft Word.
   
   
2. Place cursor where you want to type the character's name.
   
   
3. Click the Bold Icon.
   
   
   
4. Click on Tools, Macros, then Record and New Macro
   
   
5. A Macro Window will pop up.
   
   
   In the Macro Name Box put the name of one of your characters.
   
   
   
   
6. In the Assign Macro To section, click on the Keyboard Button.
   
   
   
7. Another window will pop up. Put the cursor in the Press New Shortcut Key text box. (Blue Arrow in picture below.)
   
   
   
8. Type at the same time the ALT key and the first letter of the character's name. If it says [unassigned] below that text box, then click on the Assign. (red arrow)
   





9. Now your keyboard strokes will be recorded

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First hit the return key once.
Then hit the bold button near top.
Type the characters name.
Type a colon at the end of their name, for example, Sally:
Hit the space bar once.
Hit the stop recording button, the square blue box.

Now you are ready to try your macro. Hit the Alt key together (at the same time as the first letter of the character). You should see the character's name automatically typed for your.