Insert Current Date in Excel

Inserting the Current Date in Excel

To insert the current date in Excel, you can use several methods, each serving a slightly different purpose depending on whether you want the date to update automatically or remain static. Below are the steps for each method.

Using the TODAY Function

The TODAY function in Excel returns the current date. Here’s how to use it:

• Click on the cell where you want to insert the current date.
• Type “=TODAY()” and press Enter.
• The current date will be displayed in the cell.

Note that the TODAY function updates the date every time the worksheet is opened or when calculations are updated, making it dynamic.

Using the NOW Function

If you need to include the current time along with the date, you can use the NOW function:

• Click on the cell where you want to insert the current date and time.
• Type “=NOW()” and press Enter.
• The current date and time will be displayed in the cell.

Like the TODAY function, NOW is also dynamic and updates every time the worksheet recalculates.

Inserting a Static Date

If you want to insert the current date but do not want it to update automatically, you can use a keyboard shortcut:

• Click on the cell where you want to insert the current date.
• Press “Ctrl + ;” (Windows) or “Command + ;” (Mac) to insert the current date.
• The current date will be inserted as a static value, meaning it will not update when the worksheet is recalculated or reopened.

Using a Formula to Update the Date Automatically But Only Once

Sometimes, you might want the date to update automatically when you first enter it but not afterwards. This can be achieved by using a formula in conjunction with the “Ctrl + ;” shortcut, but a more straightforward approach involves using VBA or a specific formula that captures the date at the time of entry and doesn’t change afterwards. However, for most users, using the TODAY function and then copying the value (instead of the formula) to where you need it provides a simple workaround.

📝 Note: When using formulas like TODAY or NOW, remember that these are dynamic and will update. If you need a static date, use the keyboard shortcut method or copy and paste the value (not the formula) into your cell.

Format the Date

After inserting the date, you might want to change its format to better suit your needs. You can do this by:

• Selecting the cell(s) with the date.
• Right-clicking on the cell and selecting “Format Cells…”
• In the Format Cells dialog box, under the Number tab, select “Date” from the Category list.
• Choose your desired date format from the Type list.
• Click OK to apply the format.

Format Code	Description
mm/dd/yyyy	Displays the date as month/day/year (e.g., 07/26/2024)
dddd, mmmm dd, yyyy	Displays the date as day of the week, month day, year (e.g., Friday, July 26, 2024)

In conclusion, inserting the current date in Excel can be accomplished through various methods, including using functions like TODAY and NOW for dynamic dates, or keyboard shortcuts for static dates. Understanding how to format these dates is also crucial for presenting your data effectively. Whether you’re tracking project timelines, recording data entry, or simply need to timestamp documents, Excel’s date functions provide the flexibility you need.