how do I get rid of symbols that download in data from web

[kengs]

when downloading data from websites using select all, copy, paste into Excel,
I receive symbols and characters some of which can be cut and pasted away.
Others such as drop down boxes defy all attempts at removal. Has anyone found
a solution?

 

[Gary''s Student]

Try this small macro:

Sub GettingOutOfShape()
Dim s As Shape
For Each s In ActiveSheet.Shapes
s.Delete
Next
End Sub


Macros are very easy to install and use:

1. ALT-F11 brings up the VBE window
2. ALT-I
ALT-M opens a fresh module
3. paste the stuff in and close the VBE window

If you save the workbook, the macro will be saved with it.

To remove the macro:

1. bring up the VBE window as above
2. clear the code out
3. close the VBE window

To use the macro from Excel:

1. ALT-F8
2. Select the macro
3. Touch RUN

To learn more about macros in general, see:

http://www.mvps.org/dmcritchie/excel/getstarted.htm