Use ChatGPT to create ONLYOFFICE macros with ease

Macros are versatile tools that can automate tasks and customize functionality of the editors to suit specific needs. ONLYOFFICE macros, built on JavaScript, offer both flexibility and ease of use. In this blog post, we’ll take their utility to the next level and explore how to streamline the process of creating these macros by leveraging the capabilities of OpenAI, particularly ChatGPT.

About ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an advanced AI language model developed by OpenAI, designed to understand and generate human-like text based on the input it receives. It excels at assisting with tasks like writing code, generating ideas, and explaining complex concepts in a simple way. When it comes to building macros, ChatGPT can be a valuable tool by helping you draft, debug, and optimize JavaScript code.

To get started with ChatGPT, you can sign up for free on OpenAI’s website. Once registered, you can access ChatGPT directly through their platform.

Using ChatGPT to create basic macros

Using ChatGPT to create basic macros is a smooth and efficient process, but there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results:

• Be specific: ChatGPT is a language-based model, so the more detailed and precise your prompt, the better the outcome. When working with ONLYOFFICE macros, it’s crucial to include clear instructions and specify the correct ONLYOFFICE API methods to ensure the generated macro meets your requirements.
• Enable the “Search the Web” feature: To enhance the quality and accuracy of the generated macros, we recommend enabling this feature. It allows ChatGPT to access additional information, including resources from our official website. You can activate this feature directly in the ChatGPT message area.

By following these steps, you can harness the full potential of ChatGPT to create efficient and functional macros tailored to your needs.

Here are examples of macros generated by ChatGPT using the provided prompt:

Create several ONLYOFFICE Macros that replicate the functionality of the most popular VBA macros, using the appropriate ONLYOFFICE API methods.

Resulting macros:

A macro that removes duplicate values from the selection:

(function () {
    var activeSheet = Api.GetActiveSheet();
    var selection = activeSheet.GetSelection();
    var values = [];
    selection.ForEach(function (cell) {
        var value = cell.GetValue();
        if (values.indexOf(value) === -1) {
            values.push(value);
        } else {
            cell.SetValue("");
        }
    });
})();

A macro that converts text to upper case:

(function () {
    var activeSheet = Api.GetActiveSheet();
    var selection = activeSheet.GetSelection();
    selection.ForEach(function (cell) {
        var value = cell.GetValue();
        if (typeof value === 'string') {
            cell.SetValue(value.toUpperCase());
        }
    });
})();

A macro that inserts the current date into the spreadsheet:

(function () {
    var activeSheet = Api.GetActiveSheet();
    var selection = activeSheet.GetSelection();
    var currentDate = new Date();
    selection.ForEach(function (cell) {
        cell.SetValue(currentDate.toLocaleDateString());
    });
})();

Using ChatGPT to create advanced macros

Creating advanced macros may require a more refined approach. While ChatGPT is not yet fully capable of generating complex ONLYOFFICE macros seamlessly, it is continuously improving. By leveraging the Search the web feature, you can access valuable resources and guidance to enhance the process. Here’s how to get started:

• Identify key API methods: Determine the essential ONLYOFFICE API methods needed for your macro.
• Provide documentation links: Include links to the relevant documentation pages describing these methods in your prompt. This ensures ChatGPT has the context needed to generate accurate and functional macros.

For example, here’s a prompt we used to create a macro for the PDF Form Editor:

Make an ONLYOFFICE macro for PDF forms that will find a text form that contains “name” in the key and set it as required. Use correct ONLYOFFICE API methods.

Use this information for reference:
GetFormKey:
https://api.onlyoffice.com/docs/office-api/usage-api/form-api/apitextform/getformkey/
SetRequired:
https://api.onlyoffice.com/docs/office-api/usage-api/form-api/apitextform/setrequired/

Resulting macro:

(function () {
    var oDocument = Api.GetDocument();
    var allForms = oDocument.GetAllForms();

    for (var i = 0; i < allForms.length; i++) {
        var form = allForms[i];
        var formKey = form.GetFormKey();

        if (formKey && formKey.toLowerCase().includes("name")) {
            form.SetRequired(true);
        }
    }
})();

ONLYOFFICE macros are incredibly versatile and straightforward to use, empowering users to automate tasks and tailor the editor’s functionality to their specific needs. With modern AI technology, creating your own macros has never been easier.

We encourage you to explore our extensive library of API methods, which offers endless possibilities for customization. Don’t be intimidated by the complexity of writing your own macros – modern tools and resources make even advanced macro development accessible and manageable. Best of luck in your exploratory endeavors!