Files with the DOCM extension are presented as an ally for users who like to automate processes. Learn a little more about them and what app you should use to open them.
What are DOCM files?
It is a file format belonging to the Microsoft Office office suite. Created to be used by the Word application and is characterized by including macros in its structure.
Macros in Word allow you to automate tasks within a document. These are usually repetitive actions like performing calculations within the file.
A macro is a series of instructions that are grouped into a single command. Its use is usually more popular in Excel, but it is just as useful for other Office programs.
A DOCM extension file is the same as a DOCX with the difference of the automated tasks that it has integrated. In addition, to be based on XML and contain multimedia elements.
To create a macro in a Word document, click on the Developer option and then choose the Record macro option. To finish, press the End recording button.
How to open a DOCM file?
the DOCM format is not complex, on the contrary, it is presented as a format compatible with many applications. Among the most used to open this type of file are Word, OpenOffice Writer, WordViewer and FreeKingsoft Writer.
Using Word
Microsoft Word is its native application and therefore it is the best option to open this type of file. Launch Word on your PC and click File / Open / Browse.
Find the file in the directory, select it and click the Open button. Another way to do it is by clicking on the file and it will open immediately.
In case the default application to open the file is not Word. Right click on the file and select the Open With option. Choose Word from the available applications. Once the document is open, access the macros from the programmer / Macros menu.
Applications to open a DOCM file
- IMSI TurboPDE
- Corel WordPerfect
- AbiSource AbiWord
- Adobe RoboHelp
- Open Office Writer
- Microsoft Works
- Microsoft Office Word
- MobiSystems OfficeSuite Pro (Android and iOS)
I can’t open the DOCM file
There are multiple reasons why a file with the DOCM extension will not open. Depending on the problem there are several possible solutions to open the document.
outdated software
One of the most common reasons why a file won’t open is incompatibility with the version of the file and the installed software. Download and install the latest version of Microsoft Office.
If you cannot acquire the license, you can always opt for a free software version such as Open Office Writer.
Corrupted file
If you still can’t open the file, try to make sure it’s not damaged. This occurs when there is an interruption in the file download process and it ends up incomplete.
If someone else sent you the document, ask them to resend it. If you got it from a page, download again.
infected file
Check that the file does not have any virus or malicious software. Perform a system scan with an updated antivirus application.
If the antivirus has detected a virus on the system, it tries to neutralize the threat as soon as possible. An infected file can spread throughout the system and affect other files.
hardware problems
Memory and disk failures can also be the causes that prevent you from opening the file. Use a tool to verify that the hardware is in good condition.
Similarly, check that the device drivers are up to date. If you recently did a driver installation and the system is behaving unusual, roll back the installation.
