Intro
Discover 5 efficient ways to calculate years between dates in Excel, including using formulas like DATEDIF and YEARFRAC, and Excel functions like DATE and TEXT. Learn how to easily find the difference between dates, calculate age, and perform date arithmetic with step-by-step examples and expert tips.
Calculating the years between dates is a common task in Excel, and there are several ways to accomplish this. Whether you're tracking employee tenure, analyzing customer loyalty, or managing project timelines, calculating years between dates can help you make informed decisions. In this article, we'll explore five ways to calculate years between dates in Excel.
Why Calculate Years Between Dates?
Calculating years between dates is useful in a variety of scenarios. For instance, you might want to:
- Determine employee tenure for performance evaluations or benefits
- Analyze customer loyalty and retention rates
- Track project timelines and milestones
- Calculate age or years of experience
Method 1: Using the DATEDIF Function
The DATEDIF function is a powerful tool for calculating the difference between two dates in years. The syntax is as follows:
DATEDIF(start_date, end_date, unit)
Where:
- start_date is the earlier date
- end_date is the later date
- unit is the unit of time you want to calculate (in this case, "y" for years)
For example, if you want to calculate the number of years between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2022, you would use the following formula:
=DATEDIF("2020-01-01", "2022-01-01", "y")
Method 2: Using the YEARFRAC Function
The YEARFRAC function calculates the fraction of a year between two dates. You can use this function to calculate the number of years between dates by multiplying the result by 1.
YEARFRAC(start_date, end_date, [basis])
Where:
- start_date is the earlier date
- end_date is the later date
- [basis] is an optional argument that specifies the day count basis (default is 0)
For example, if you want to calculate the number of years between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2022, you would use the following formula:
=YEARFRAC("2020-01-01", "2022-01-01")*1
Method 3: Using the INT and YEAR Functions
You can also calculate the number of years between dates by using the INT and YEAR functions.
INT((YEAR(end_date) - YEAR(start_date)) + (MONTH(end_date) > MONTH(start_date)))
Where:
- end_date is the later date
- start_date is the earlier date
For example, if you want to calculate the number of years between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2022, you would use the following formula:
=INT((YEAR("2022-01-01") - YEAR("2020-01-01")) + (MONTH("2022-01-01") > MONTH("2020-01-01")))
Method 4: Using the DATE and YEAR Functions
Another way to calculate the number of years between dates is by using the DATE and YEAR functions.
YEAR(end_date) - YEAR(start_date)
Where:
- end_date is the later date
- start_date is the earlier date
For example, if you want to calculate the number of years between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2022, you would use the following formula:
=YEAR("2022-01-01") - YEAR("2020-01-01")
Method 5: Using Power Query
Power Query is a powerful tool for data analysis and manipulation. You can use Power Query to calculate the number of years between dates by creating a custom column.
To calculate the number of years between dates using Power Query, follow these steps:
- Go to the Data tab and select "From Table/Range"
- Select the table range that contains the start and end dates
- Click "OK" to create a new query
- Click "Add Column" and select "Custom Column"
- Enter the following formula:
=Date.Year([end_date]) - Date.Year([start_date])
Where:
- [end_date] is the later date column
- [start_date] is the earlier date column
Gallery of Excel Date Functions
Excel Date Functions Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to calculate years between dates in Excel? A: The best way to calculate years between dates in Excel depends on the specific scenario and the desired level of accuracy. The DATEDIF function is a popular choice, but the YEARFRAC function can also be used.
Q: Can I use the YEAR function to calculate years between dates? A: Yes, the YEAR function can be used to calculate years between dates, but it may not provide the desired level of accuracy.
Q: How do I calculate the number of years between dates using Power Query? A: To calculate the number of years between dates using Power Query, create a custom column and enter the formula: =Date.Year([end_date]) - Date.Year([start_date])
Conclusion
Calculating years between dates is a common task in Excel, and there are several ways to accomplish this. By using the DATEDIF function, YEARFRAC function, INT and YEAR functions, DATE and YEAR functions, or Power Query, you can calculate the number of years between dates with ease. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and provides the desired level of accuracy.
Share Your Thoughts
We hope this article has helped you learn how to calculate years between dates in Excel. Do you have any favorite methods or tips for working with dates in Excel? Share your thoughts in the comments below!