Macro

A stored list of one or more commands used to simplify some operation in either the operating system or some running program. Macros group commands together and are typically used in repetitive tasks where the macro is called into operating via a shortcut keychord. Some programs allow you to record repetitive keystrokes and mouse clicks into a saved macro for future use; other programs provide a macro language that where you actually write (often sophisticated) programs as macros. Macros can either be stored in files so they apply to the program in general or into data files where they apply only when that particular data file is loaded.

Macros can be both a blessing and a curse. While complicated macros can be written to automate many different tasks, these same complicated macros can be turned into malware. There are, for example, many macro virus which have been circulating for a long time.

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