How to Convert Date Stored as Text to Date in Excel

Jul 29

Working with dates in Excel can be tricky, especially when those dates are stored as text. Converting these into Excel's date format is a game-changer, letting you harness Excel's date-based functions. So, let's dive in.

Step 1: Spot the Text Dates

Identify the cells in your Excel sheet containing dates as text. Unlike Excel's typical date format, these will usually be aligned to the left.

Step 2: Harness the Power of DATEVALUE

In a cell next to your text date, it's time to use Excel's handy DATEVALUE function. If your text date is in cell A1, type =DATEVALUE(A1).

Step 3: Execute the Conversion

After typing the formula, hit Enter to see your text date transform into Excel's serial number date.

Step 4: Adopt a Standard Date Format

With the serial number in hand, we need to convert it to a standard date format. Click the cell containing the serial number, go to Format > Cells > Number > Date, and choose your preferred date format.

Step 5: Confirm Correct Conversion

Finally, take a moment to double-check your work. Make sure that your new, correctly formatted dates match the original text dates.

Jonathan Burks