TODAY and NOW return the current date and time, and they update every time the workbook recalculates.
TODAY
=TODAY()
It returns today's date, with no time. It takes no arguments.
NOW
=NOW()
It returns the current date and time. Format the cell as time to show the clock.
Useful examples
- Days left until a deadline in B2:
=B2-TODAY()
- Days since an invoice date:
=TODAY()-B2
- Age in years:
=DATEDIF(B2, TODAY(), "Y")
- Highlight overdue items with conditional formatting:
=B2<TODAY()
Static date and time shortcuts
Functions change every day. To type a date that stays fixed, use the shortcuts:
- Ctrl + ; inserts today's date.
- Ctrl + Shift + ; inserts the current time.
If it shows a number
A result like 46315 is a date in General format. Change the cell format to Short Date.
Worked example
=TODAY() returns today's date. =NOW() returns date and time. Days left to a deadline in A2: =A2-TODAY(). Both update whenever the file recalculates.
Common mistakes
- Using TODAY() as a record date. It changes every day. Use Ctrl+; for a fixed date.
- Seeing a date when you need a number. Format as General.
- Expecting live update without recalculation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I type a fixed date?
Press Ctrl+; for the date and Ctrl+Shift+; for the time.
Is TODAY volatile?
Yes, it recalculates every time the sheet changes.
Does it use my computer's date?
Yes.
Practice this online, free
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Practice these formulas: TODAY, NOW, DATEDIF.
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