| Extension | .xlsm |
| Category | documents |
| Description | The XLSM format is a file extension used in Microsoft Excel to indicate a spreadsheet that contains macros written in the Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) programming language. It is an advancement from the traditional XLSX format, which does not include macros. XLSM files allow users to automate tasks, perform calculations, and create custom functions within Excel using VBA macros. These macros can range from simple scripts to complex automation routines, helping users streamline workflows and boost productivity. XLSM files are commonly used in business, finance, and data analysis applications that require automation and customization. |
| Technical details | XLSM files are based on the Open XML format, which is a zipped, XML-based file format developed by Microsoft for representing spreadsheets, charts, presentations, and word processing documents. The main components of an XLSM file are XML files for workbook structure, styles, themes, and shared strings stored within the compressed archive. These XML files describe the content and formatting of the spreadsheet. XLSM files support macros written in VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) and can be opened and edited in Microsoft Excel, as well as other spreadsheet software that supports the Open XML format. The ".xlsm" file extension is used to differentiate macro-enabled Excel workbooks from standard Excel workbooks, which typically have the ".xlsx" extension, helping users and applications identify files that contain macros. |
