An Excel macro is a set of instructions that automate a repetitive or complex task in Microsoft Excel. Think of it like recording a series of actions in Excel, that can then be played back automatically whenever you need to perform that same set of actions again. For example, you could create a macro that automatically sorts a table and applies a specific formatting to the data.

On the other hand, an Excel formula is a pre-built function that calculates values based on the data in cells. It’s like a recipe for performing a specific calculation or operation, such as adding or multiplying numbers. For example, you could use a formula to automatically calculate the sum of a range of cells.

The key difference between macros and formulas is that macros are a set of user-defined instructions that can perform more complex tasks, while formulas are pre-built functions designed to perform specific calculations on data in cells. Macros can help automate repetitive tasks and improve your productivity, while formulas can help you quickly perform calculations on your data.