The TODAY and NOW functions are date and time functions used to return the current system date and time. These functions are dynamic, meaning they update automatically.
1. TODAY Function
The TODAY function returns the current date.
Structure:
=TODAY()
No arguments are required.
Example:
If today’s date is:
24-Feb-2026
Then:
=TODAY()
Result:
24-Feb-2026
When to Use TODAY
- Display current date automatically
- Calculate age
- Track deadlines
- Create dynamic reports
- Calculate remaining days
Example:
=A1-TODAY()
This calculates how many days are left until a future date in cell A1.
2. NOW Function
The NOW function returns the current date and time.
Structure:
=NOW()
No arguments are required.
Example:
If current date and time is:
24-Feb-2026 10:30 AM
Then:
=NOW()
Result:
24-Feb-2026 10:30 AM
When to Use NOW
- Timestamp entries
- Track real-time updates
- Monitor time-sensitive reports
- Log current date and time
Difference Between TODAY and NOW
| TODAY | NOW |
|---|---|
| Returns only date | Returns date and time |
| No time included | Includes time |
| Updates daily | Updates continuously |
Important Notes
- Both functions are volatile (they recalculate automatically).
- They update when the workbook is refreshed or reopened.
- You can format the result using Date or Time formatting options.
Why These Functions Are Important
They help you:
- Create dynamic spreadsheets
- Track deadlines and schedules
- Calculate time differences
- Build automated reports
TODAY and NOW are essential functions for working with date and time-based calculations in Excel.