Get Only Date from Datetime in Excel: Here’s How!

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25-10-2024

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When working with Excel, you might often encounter cells that contain datetime values. While this can be useful for various calculations and data analysis, there are times when you might want to extract just the date from these datetime values. Whether you're preparing reports, cleaning up data, or simply need the date for presentations, knowing how to do this efficiently can save you a lot of time. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get only the date from datetime in Excel.

Understanding Datetime in Excel

Excel stores datetime values as serial numbers. The integer part represents the date, while the decimal part represents the time. For example, the value 45000.75 represents a date along with a time component. Understanding this can help you manipulate datetime data effectively.

Methods to Extract Only the Date from Datetime

There are several ways to extract just the date from a datetime value in Excel. We’ll cover the most common methods: using the TEXT function, INT function, and Date Formatting.

1. Using the TEXT Function

The TEXT function in Excel allows you to convert a value to text in a specified format. To extract the date from a datetime value, you can use the following formula:

=TEXT(A1, "dd/mm/yyyy")

Explanation:

• Replace A1 with the reference to the cell containing your datetime.
• "dd/mm/yyyy" formats the date to show as day/month/year.

This method is particularly useful if you need the date in a specific format for display purposes.

2. Using the INT Function

If you're looking for a quick way to convert the datetime to a date value, the INT function is a perfect choice. This function rounds down to the nearest integer, effectively removing the time component:

=INT(A1)

How it works:

• The INT function will take the datetime value in cell A1 and strip away the decimal part (the time), leaving you with just the date.

3. Using Date Formatting

Another simple way to view only the date without altering the underlying data is to change the cell formatting:

1. Select the cells with the datetime values.
2. Right-click and choose Format Cells.
3. In the Number tab, select Date.
4. Choose your desired date format and click OK.

This method displays only the date, but keep in mind that the underlying value remains unchanged.

Comparison of Methods

Here’s a quick comparison table of the methods discussed:

Important Note: The TEXT function returns a text string, while the INT function maintains the date as a serial number, which is useful for further calculations.

Practical Example

Suppose you have the following datetime values in cells A1 to A5:

To extract just the date using the three methods:

Using TEXT Function

In cell B1, input:

=TEXT(A1, "dd/mm/yyyy")

Then drag down to fill the cells.

Using INT Function

In cell C1, input:

=INT(A1)

Again, drag down to fill the cells.

Using Date Formatting

• Select A1 to A5, right-click, and choose Format Cells.
• Select Date and choose your preferred format.

This will visually change how the dates are displayed, but the original values will remain intact.

Conclusion

Extracting only the date from a datetime value in Excel is straightforward and can be done using various methods. Whether you prefer the TEXT function for customization or the INT function for efficiency, knowing how to manipulate datetime values can significantly enhance your productivity in Excel.

With this guide, you now have the tools to handle datetime extraction with confidence. So the next time you’re working with datetime data, remember these techniques to streamline your workflow. Happy Excel-ing! 📊✨