How to Insert and Format Date and Time in Excel

In Excel, incorporating the current date and time is essential for recording activities or providing precise timestamps for data. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up date and time values in Excel, allowing you to choose between static or dynamic options to suit your needs.

Section 1: Inserting Static Date and Time in Excel

Static data remains unchanged and doesn’t update automatically. Here’s how to insert a static date and time:

1. Select the Cell: Choose the cell where you want to display the date and time.
2. Insert Date Only: Press “Ctrl + ;” (Ctrl and semicolon keys together) to add the current date.
3. Insert Time Only: Press “Ctrl + Shift + ;” (Ctrl, Shift, and semicolon keys together) to add the current time.
4. Insert Date and Time Together: Press “Ctrl + ;”, then press the spacebar, and finally “Ctrl + Shift + ;” to include both date and time.

Section 2: Inserting Dynamic Date and Time in Excel

Dynamic data updates each time the spreadsheet is opened, recalculated, or when a macro is executed. Follow these steps for dynamic date and time values:

1. Select the Cell: Choose the cell where you want to place the dynamic date and time.
2. Insert Current Date: Go to the “Formulas” tab, select “Date & Time,” and click the “TODAY()” function.
3. Insert Current Date and Time: Go to the “Formulas” tab, select “Date & Time,” and click the “NOW()” function.

   Note: The values of “TODAY()” and “NOW()” functions will update when the worksheet is opened, recalculated, or when a macro is executed. The displayed times and dates are based on the operating system clock.

Formatting Date and Time in Excel

Customizing the format of date and time values is simple. Follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the Cell: This should be the cell displaying the date and time.
2. Select “Format Cells”: This option will appear in the menu.
3. Click on “Date and Time” in the “Number” Tab: This will open the formatting options.
4. Choose Desired Format: Select the pattern that suits your preferences.

Conclusion

By following these instructions, you can effortlessly add static or dynamic date and time values to Excel cells. Whether you need fixed timestamps or constantly updating information, Excel offers the flexibility to meet your requirements. Additionally, you can format the date and time display to your liking. Experiment with these features to streamline your Excel experience.