If you have been following my blog, you should know that I focus on tricks and tips of “preset” ways in Excel. For some people, using those preset ways is enough, but for others, Excel may be a bit restrictive in allowing them to work with their data in exactly the way they need.

That’s where the power of macros comes into play. With macros you can extend what Excel can do, making it process your data, worksheets, and workbooks just the way you want.  What’s more, you may start automating routine processes and save huge amount of time from doing repetitive (boring) works.

If you know how. (That’s always the kicker, right?)

You see, the whole idea of macros can be a bit intimidating to some people. It needn’t be, particularly if you have the right instructor showing you how to create and use your own macros.

Fortunately, I’ve found the “right instructor.” Allen Wyatt, who has been publishing his ExcelTips newsletter since 1998. (Yes, for 18 years!) He’s also been writing books about Excel and teaching others how to use it for even longer than that.

The cool thing is that he has put together what he’s called the “Excel Macros for Beginners” course, and it’s awesome! He’s prepared a great overview to the course that you should definitely check out if you are new to the whole idea of creating your own macros.

Allen opens the doors to his course only a few times each year, and they are open right now. The great news is that you can sign up for the course at 20% off the regular price! (This early bird pricing is available for only a limited time.) When you register for the course, you get 24/7 access to all materials–and there’s a boat load of them–for a full year. Plus, Allen personally provides support for the first 6 weeks of the course.

Macros are a great tool that can enhance what you do with Excel. Those who learn how to create and use them aren’t limited to the built-in tools provided by the program. Allen’s course can provide you with the valuable skills you need to finally master macros.

Do yourself a favor and check out the course. You’ve got nothing to lose and an entirely new skillset to gain.

Give it a try. Remember that you’ve only got until March 10 to take advantage of the early bird pricing, though.

Oh, and in the spirit of full disclosure, you need to know that I do make a small commission if you decide to join Allen’s course. I don’t just recommend anything and everything; Allen’s got the necessary professional “chops,” and his course has the quality and value that make me happy to recommend it without hesitation.