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How to Fix Excel for Mac VBA Editor Cursor Jumping Backward on M1 Macs
Question details
The user needs a solution for erratic cursor movement and unexpected spacing while typing in the Excel VBA Editor on an M1 Mac.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS (M1 Apple Silicon)
- Scenario
- Typing and editing macro code within the built-in VBA Editor.
- Observed behavior
- The VBA Editor automatically inserts or removes spaces while typing, forcing the text cursor to move backward unexpectedly.
Before attempting to write or edit further code, copy your existing VBA scripts into a plain text editor like TextEdit to prevent accidental code deletion caused by the erratic cursor.
Update Software and Report the Apple Silicon Bug
Since this is a known compatibility bug between the Excel VBA Editor and Apple Silicon (M1) architecture, keeping your software updated and reporting the issue to Microsoft is the primary solution.
Microsoft frequently releases patches for architecture-specific bugs. Ensuring both macOS and Office are completely up to date gives you the best chance of receiving the official fix.
Because the issue requires a developer-level patch, submitting direct feedback with your specific system details helps prioritize the fix.
Click the Apple menu, go to System Settings > General > Software Update, and install any pending macOS updates.
Open Excel, click 'Help' in the top menu bar, select 'Check for Updates', and install the latest available version via Microsoft AutoUpdate.
In Excel, navigate to Help > Feedback > I Don't Like Something.
Describe the cursor jumping issue clearly. Be sure to include your Mac model (M1), macOS version, Excel build number, and the steps that trigger the bug before clicking Submit.
Use an Alternative Environment for VBA Editing
If the VBA Editor bug prevents you from getting urgent work done, temporarily switch to an Intel-based Mac or a Windows PC until a patch is released.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Spreadsheet Management
If Excel for Mac's VBA Editor is slowing down your workflow due to M1 compatibility bugs, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to Microsoft Office, ensuring your spreadsheet data is handled smoothly across all devices.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the Mac version optimized for your system.
- 2. Open Your Workbooks: Launch WPS Spreadsheets and open your existing Excel files directly.
- 3. Edit Without Interruptions: Enjoy a stable, fast environment for all your advanced spreadsheet and data analysis needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the VBA Editor cursor jump backward only on my M1 Mac?
This erratic cursor behavior is caused by a known compatibility bug between the Microsoft Excel VBA Editor and the ARM-based architecture of Apple Silicon (M1) chips. Intel-based Macs are not affected.
Will Microsoft fix the VBA editor bug on Apple Silicon?
Yes, but Microsoft relies heavily on user feedback to prioritize developer resources. Submitting a detailed report through the Help > Feedback menu in Excel increases visibility for a future software patch.
Can I disable auto-formatting in Excel Mac VBA to stop the jumping?
While you can adjust Editor Options in your VBA preferences to turn off Auto Syntax Check, the M1-specific spacing bug often overrides these settings. Waiting for an official software update remains the most reliable solution.
