5 Excel Macros I Use Every Day to Save HOURS

3/28/2025

Walk through five essential macros I use daily to clean up data, format sheets, and improve workflow efficiency—saving hours every week.

Download the Example File

Every Day Excel Macros.zip

1. Fill Down Blank Cells Instantly

Blank cells can be a problem when working with data, especially for pivot tables and formulas that depend on complete datasets. Instead of manually filling them in, this macro quickly finds each blank cell in a column and fills it with the last non-blank value above it. The result is a clean, fully populated column with values converted to static entries to prevent accidental changes.

• Quickly fills gaps in exported data
• Prevents errors in calculations and analysis

2. Automatically Format a Sheet Title

A properly formatted sheet title makes a workbook more readable, especially when sharing reports. This macro inserts a new row at the top, merges and centers the title, applies bold formatting, and uses the sheet name as the default title. Instead of manually adjusting headers every time, you can format them instantly with one click.

• Creates a polished, professional look
• Standardizes formatting across multiple sheets

3. Create a Table of Contents for Easy Navigation

Large workbooks with dozens of sheets can be frustrating to navigate. This macro automatically generates a Table of Contents on a new sheet, listing all sheet names with clickable hyperlinks. It even adds a link taking you back to the TOC that you can paste onto each sheet, allowing you to return to the main index in one click.

• Saves time navigating large workbooks
• Provides an easy reference for collaborators

BONUS! If you prefer a table of contents that has an image tile of each page, for a more visual-based navigation experience.

4. Instantly Format Pivot Charts

Excel’s default pivot charts often require tedious manual adjustments to look polished. This macro applies a clean, professional format instantly—it sets a descriptive title, adjusts spacing, applies a consistent color scheme, and removes unnecessary gridlines and clutter. With a single click, your charts go from raw data visuals to boardroom-ready presentations.

• Standardizes pivot chart formatting for a polished look
• Eliminates the need for repetitive manual adjustments

5. Backup Your Workbook with One Click

Before making major edits, it’s always a good idea to save a backup. This macro duplicates the current file, appends a timestamp to the filename, and saves it in the same folder—no need to manually rename anything. It’s a quick and effortless way to create a safety net.

• Protects against accidental data loss
• Provides an automatic version history

Source: excelcampus.com