How to Connect VB to Excel
By Joseph Kowal
It's easy to learn how to connect and use Visual Basic (VB) inside of the Microsoft Excel application. VB is an excellent tool for automating repetitive actions in Excel such as formatting text and building tables--you can even build your own custom action buttons and forms with this powerful add-in.
Add the Developer Tab to Your Copy of Excel
Open up your copy of Microsoft Excel and click on the round button in the top left corner with four colored squares as shown in this image.
Click on the "Excel Options" button in the lower right corner.
Choose the "Popular" tab in the left column, and then make sure to check the box titled "Show Developer Tab in the Ribbon."
Click the "OK" button in the lower right corner to save your changes.
You will now see the "Developer" tab at the top of your Excel workbook.
How to Connect VB to Excel
Click on the "Developer" tab at the top of your Excel workbook.
Click on the "Visual Basic" icon on the left side of the toolbar.
Know that the Visual Basic editor is now open and connected to your Excel application.
Tips
- Take full advantage of the built-in "Help" function inside of Visual Basic--it will save you hours of time and also gives you a direct link to the Microsoft Developer Network which is loaded with additional documentation and tips.
Writer Bio
Based in Aspen, Joseph Kowal has been writing how-to articles since 1997. His articles have appeared online at Clever Life Tips and eHow. He has a Bachelor of Science in finance from Colorado State University.