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Word Expander or Macro? - starry

Posted: Nov 20, 2010

Which is better? What are the differences? I have been using macros in MS Word. I downloaded a trial version of a shorthand program once, but it was a little confusing and it seemed much more involved than recording a macro. Any advice/opinions appreciated!

macro vs word expander - sm

[ In Reply To ..]
I find macros very time consuming.

I use the MS Word AutoText and AutoCorrect functions for word/phrase expansion.

These functions are very sophisticated, work beautifully, are realy easy to use, and cost me nothing.

I use AutoText/AutoCorrect to complete sentences, phrases, paragraphs, addresses, words, etc.

At this point, virtually everything I type is abbreviated.

Here's the difference - sm

[ In Reply To ..]
A macro can do so much more than a word expander. All a word expander does is replace text. It literally looks for your shortcut text as you type and replaces it with the expansion you designate. A macro is a series of recorded steps.

Shorthand is NOTHING like recording a macro. LOL

Use Shorthand for your expander. You can take it with you anywhere.

Chances are, unless you are using a Word-based program, you will not be able to record macros with most platforms. So you are just wasting time. If you ARE able to record macros with your transcription platform, use them to do functions, not expansions.

Just read the instructions on Shorthand. It's easy and worth it. Back it up at the end of every shift when you have added to it. E-mail it to yourself so you have a copy and keep it on a jump drive. You'll always have it with you then!

Easy as pie! Ummm, pie! Now I'm hungry! LOL

Wink

It depends on the word expander - that you are using..sm

[ In Reply To ..]
For example, Instant Text is a word expander that replaces your text as described in the previous post; however, it can also execute basic commands such as bold font, templates, jump-to codes, etc. It can also execute a series of recorded steps in the same manner as a macro (using the Record in Client feature). So I guess it just depends on which word expander you are referring to.

I love how easy it is to string a lot of keyboard shortcuts in Instant Text - SM

[ In Reply To ..]
in one entry so I don't have to mess around with recording macros and trying to remember what shortcut I assigned to that macro. And with the new version 7 launch codes, I can now go anywhere I need to go on my computer with the keyboard!

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