Macros are a powerful tool for editors, but learning how to record one—and how to use one—can be quite intimidating. On March 6, the Los Angeles Area chapter hosted a macros workshop at the Santa Monica Public Library. Led by EFA member and chapter co-coordinator Janet Long, we learned how to get started and practiced writing our own practical macros to clean up Word documents before we start editing them. We left understanding how macros can make our work more accurate and efficient if used correctly (practice, practice, practice). We also touched on hotkeys and wildcards. Many of us realized that we aren’t really using Word to its full potential and that some of the submenus and settings can really make our work easier.

The workshop proved successful for all of us (I read the reviews, wink wink) not only because we learned some new skills, but also because we were able to strengthen our professional bonds and network with fellow Los Angeles editors. As one attendee noted, these kinds of meetings boost our confidence that we made the right choice to become freelance editors and remind us why we love this line of work. It’s empowering to know we can always reach out to fellow EFA members when we need help with our projects, with our websites, with just about anything.

I’m giving the workshop an A+ in Camaraderie and Participation, and an A+ in fearless leadership by Janet Long! The feedback we received was great, so keep your eyes peeled for another macros workshop later this year.

Linda Ruggeri
Los Angeles Chapter Co-Coordinator