Excel Macro Not Executing Correctly When Hidden or Inactive

Last reviewed: November 2, 1994
Article ID: Q30548

The information in this article applies to:

Microsoft Excel for Windows, versions 2.x, 3.0, 4.0, 4.0a, 5.0
Microsoft Excel for OS/2 versions 2.2, 2.21, and 3.0

When attempting to run a hidden or inactive macro, referencing the macro sheet may cause improper execution of the macro. If the sheet is activated, the macro functions properly.

Due to the way certain macro functions work, the macro may need to be activated to function properly. For example, if the macro sheet is not active, the following command will not work:

   =SELECT(MACRO1.XLM!A1:B4)

To correctly make this selection, type the following:

   =ACTIVATE("MACRO1.XLM")
   =SELECT(A1:B4)

These steps allow the macro to activate the macro sheet and select the range of cells. This same procedure can also be used with worksheets and charts.

Please note that the ACTIVATE function will not cause a hidden document to be displayed.

KBCategory: kbusage
KBSubcategory:
Additional words: 5.00 2.00 2.0 2.01 2.1 2.10 2.2 2.21 2.20 3.00
3.0 4.00 4.0 hide 4.00a

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Last reviewed: November 2, 1994
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