Adding the current date to a cell in Excel 2019 is a piece of cake! You simply need to use a formula, and Excel does the rest for you. It’s a useful trick for keeping your data up-to-date without having to manually enter the date each day. So, let’s dive into how you can do this in just a few quick steps.
Step by Step Tutorial: Adding the Current Date to a Cell in Excel 2019
First things first, let’s understand what we’re about to do. By following these steps, you’ll insert the current date into a cell in your Excel spreadsheet, and this date will automatically update each day.
Step 1: Select the Cell
Click on the cell where you want the date to appear.
Choosing the right cell is important because once you enter the formula, the date will appear in that specific cell. Make sure it’s the cell where you need the date for your data.
Step 2: Enter the Formula
Type =TODAY() into the cell and press Enter.
This formula tells Excel to fetch the current date from your computer’s system clock and place it in the cell. The great thing about this formula is that it doesn’t need any arguments; just enter it as is, and you’re good to go.
Step 3: Format the Date (Optional)
If needed, format the date by right-clicking the cell, selecting ‘Format Cells,’ and choosing your preferred date format under the ‘Number’ tab.
Sometimes you might need the date in a specific format, like “mm/dd/yyyy” or “dd-mm-yyyy.” This step allows you to customize how the date appears in the cell.
After completing these steps, you’ll have the current date displayed in the cell you selected. And the best part? It will refresh every day automatically!
Tips: Enhancing Your Experience with the Current Date in Excel 2019
- Remember that the TODAY() formula updates the date every time the workbook is opened or a calculation occurs in the sheet.
- To insert a static date that doesn’t change, use the shortcut Ctrl + ; (semicolon) instead of the TODAY() formula.
- Combine the TODAY() formula with other Excel functions to create dynamic date calculations in your spreadsheets.
- If you need both the date and time, use the NOW() function instead.
- Be cautious when sharing spreadsheets with the TODAY() formula, as the date will change based on the system date of the user opening the file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I want to add the current time as well?
Use the formula =NOW() instead, which will insert the current date and time into the selected cell.
Can I make the date static so it doesn’t change every day?
Yes, you can. Instead of using the TODAY() formula, just press Ctrl + ; (semicolon) on your keyboard, and the current date will be entered without changing daily.
Will the date update even if I don’t open the spreadsheet each day?
No, the date will only update when the spreadsheet is opened or when a calculation occurs within it.
What happens if I copy the cell with the TODAY() formula to another cell?
The formula will copy over, and the new cell will also display the current date.
Can I use the TODAY() formula in conditional formatting rules?
Absolutely! It’s a handy way to highlight dates in your spreadsheet that match, exceed, or are below the current date.
Summary
- Select the cell where the date should appear.
- Enter the formula =TODAY().
- Optionally, format the date.
Conclusion
Keeping your Excel 2019 spreadsheets up-to-date has never been easier. With the simple insertion of the TODAY() formula, your data can stay current with zero effort on your part. Imagine the possibilities: project timelines that always start from today, expense sheets that know the current date, and schedules that adjust dynamically. It’s a small feature with big potential, and it’s right at your fingertips. So go ahead, give it a try and watch the magic happen every time you open your workbook. And who knows? This might just be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to automating your Excel tasks. Stay curious, keep learning, and always look for ways to make your data work smarter for you!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.