5 Ways To Convert Excel Yyymmdd To Date

Converting Excel's date format from a six-digit or eight-digit number (YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD) to a standard date format can be a bit tricky, but there are several ways to do it. In this article, we'll explore five methods to convert Excel's date format to a standard date format.

The importance of converting date formats in Excel cannot be overstated. When working with dates in Excel, it's essential to ensure that the dates are in a format that can be easily read and understood by both humans and computers. Converting Excel's date format to a standard date format can help prevent errors, improve data analysis, and enhance collaboration.

In this article, we'll delve into five ways to convert Excel's date format from YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD to a standard date format. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced Excel user, you'll find these methods helpful in managing dates in Excel.

Method 1: Using the DATE Function

The DATE function is a powerful tool in Excel that can help you convert a six-digit or eight-digit number to a standard date format. The syntax for the DATE function is:

DATE(year, month, day)

To use the DATE function, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell where you want to display the converted date.
2. Type =DATE( and select the cell containing the date in YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD format.
3. Use the RIGHT, MID, and LEFT functions to extract the year, month, and day from the date.
4. Close the parenthesis and press Enter.

For example, if the date is in cell A1, you can use the following formula:

=DATE(RIGHT(A1,2),MID(A1,3,2),LEFT(A1,2))

This formula extracts the year, month, and day from the date in cell A1 and converts it to a standard date format.

Method 2: Using the TEXT Function

The TEXT function is another useful tool in Excel that can help you convert a six-digit or eight-digit number to a standard date format. The syntax for the TEXT function is:

TEXT(date, format)

To use the TEXT function, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell where you want to display the converted date.
2. Type =TEXT( and select the cell containing the date in YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD format.
3. Use the format "mmm d, yyyy" or "mm/dd/yyyy" to convert the date to a standard date format.
4. Close the parenthesis and press Enter.

For example, if the date is in cell A1, you can use the following formula:

=TEXT(A1,"mmm d, yyyy")

This formula converts the date in cell A1 to a standard date format.

Method 3: Using the Power Query Editor

The Power Query Editor is a powerful tool in Excel that allows you to manipulate and transform data. You can use the Power Query Editor to convert a six-digit or eight-digit number to a standard date format.

To use the Power Query Editor, follow these steps:

1. Select the cell range containing the dates in YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD format.
2. Go to the Data tab and click on From Table/Range.
3. In the Power Query Editor, click on the Add Column tab and select Custom Column.
4. Use the formula =Date.FromText([Date]) to convert the date to a standard date format.
5. Click OK and load the data back into Excel.

Method 4: Using VBA Macro

If you're comfortable with VBA macros, you can use a macro to convert a six-digit or eight-digit number to a standard date format.

To use a VBA macro, follow these steps:

1. Open the Visual Basic Editor by pressing Alt + F11 or by navigating to Developer > Visual Basic.
2. In the Visual Basic Editor, click on Insert > Module to insert a new module.
3. Paste the following code into the module:

Sub ConvertDate() Dim cell As Range For Each cell In Selection cell.Value = DateSerial(Right(cell.Value, 2), Mid(cell.Value, 3, 2), Left(cell.Value, 2)) Next cell End Sub

4. Save the macro and close the Visual Basic Editor.
5. Select the cell range containing the dates in YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD format.
6. Run the macro by pressing Alt + F8 or by navigating to Developer > Macros.

Method 5: Using Excel Add-ins

There are several Excel add-ins available that can help you convert a six-digit or eight-digit number to a standard date format.

To use an Excel add-in, follow these steps:

1. Search for Excel add-ins online and download the one that suits your needs.
2. Install the add-in and follow the instructions to activate it.
3. Select the cell range containing the dates in YYMMDD or YYYYMMDD format.
4. Use the add-in to convert the date to a standard date format.

Gallery of Excel Date Format:

Excel Date Format Image Gallery

In conclusion, converting Excel's date format from a six-digit or eight-digit number to a standard date format can be done using various methods. Whether you prefer using formulas, Power Query Editor, VBA macros, or Excel add-ins, there's a method that suits your needs. By using these methods, you can ensure that your dates are in a format that can be easily read and understood by both humans and computers.

We hope you found this article helpful. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to ask. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.