[j_vincent_01]

Hello!
Greetings!
I need some help from you. And could you please help me in the these following questions:

What is an Excel macro?
What types of tasks can a batch file or macro perform?
What are the benefits of using batch files and macros?
What are the drawbacks of using batch files and macros?

[colman77]

j_vincent,

A macro/batch file, in general, is simply a list of commands...a sort of mini program.
If you use excel frequently, macros are very helpful. You can make a macro to do just about anything in excel, but for the most part they're best used to format spreadsheets. For instance, you could make a macro to resize column A and B to some size, put a title in row 1, put in standard values for cells b2-b6, and save the spreadsheet as important.xls.
Basically, the upside to using a macro is that is saves time in the monotonous formatting of spreadsheets.
The downside to using a macro is... I don't know, but I bet there's a few.

[zephyr]

Batch files and macros can allow someone who is well versed in their use to create a way for people less versed to do things that would not ordinarily be possible for them. That allows them to be productive with less training.

One of the drawbacks is that it actually keeps some people from ever learning and advancing in the field.

Another drawback is, sometime a macro cannot be converted across to another platform (such as QuattroPro to Excel) and some usability of the item suffers as a result.

You really should study the course material instead of getting assistance from a help forum.

Good luck.