When it comes to managing and organizing data in Google Sheets, having the ability to easily retrieve the current date is an essential feature. Whether you’re tracking daily sales, monitoring project progress, or simply keeping a record of important events, knowing the current date can be a crucial piece of information. However, for many users, getting the current date in Google Sheets can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the platform. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways to get today’s date in Google Sheets, including formulas, functions, and add-ons, so you can easily incorporate this essential information into your spreadsheets.
Using Formulas and Functions
One of the most straightforward ways to get today’s date in Google Sheets is by using a formula or function. Google Sheets offers several built-in functions that can help you retrieve the current date, including the TODAY function and the NOW function.
The TODAY Function
The TODAY function is a simple and effective way to get the current date in Google Sheets. To use this function, simply type “=TODAY()” into a cell, and press Enter. The function will automatically update to display the current date, which can be formatted to suit your needs.
| Example | Result |
|---|---|
| =TODAY() | 2023-03-15 |
The NOW Function
The NOW function is similar to the TODAY function, but it returns the current date and time, rather than just the date. This can be useful if you need to track the exact time of an event or action. To use the NOW function, type “=NOW()” into a cell, and press Enter.
| Example | Result |
|---|---|
| =NOW() | 2023-03-15 14:30:00 |
Using Add-ons and Scripts
In addition to formulas and functions, there are several add-ons and scripts available that can help you get today’s date in Google Sheets. These add-ons and scripts can offer more advanced features and functionality than the built-in functions, and can be customized to suit your specific needs.
The AutoDate Add-on
The AutoDate add-on is a popular and highly-rated add-on that allows you to automatically update dates and times in your Google Sheets. With AutoDate, you can easily get today’s date and time, as well as schedule updates and reminders. To install the AutoDate add-on, follow these steps: (See Also: Google Sheets How to Save? Mastering Your Data)
- Open your Google Sheet
- Click on the “Add-ons” menu
- Search for “AutoDate” and click on the result
- Click on the “Install” button
The Script Editor
The Script Editor is a built-in tool in Google Sheets that allows you to create and edit custom scripts. With the Script Editor, you can create custom functions and add-ons that can help you get today’s date and time. To access the Script Editor, follow these steps:
- Open your Google Sheet
- Click on the “Tools” menu
- Click on the “Script editor” option
Best Practices and Tips
When using formulas, functions, and add-ons to get today’s date in Google Sheets, there are several best practices and tips to keep in mind. Here are a few:
Format Your Dates Correctly
When formatting your dates, make sure to use a consistent format throughout your spreadsheet. This will help ensure that your dates are easy to read and understand.
Use the TODAY Function Instead of Hardcoding Dates
Instead of hardcoding dates into your spreadsheet, use the TODAY function to automatically update the date. This will save you time and reduce the risk of errors.
Test Your Formulas and Functions
Before using a formula or function to get today’s date, make sure to test it to ensure that it is working correctly. This will help you catch any errors or issues before they become a problem. (See Also: How to Put Equations in Google Sheets? Simplify Your Spreadsheets)
Conclusion
Getting today’s date in Google Sheets is a simple and essential task that can be achieved using formulas, functions, and add-ons. By following the tips and best practices outlined in this article, you can easily incorporate today’s date into your spreadsheets and improve your productivity and efficiency. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, Google Sheets has a range of tools and features that can help you get the job done.
Recap
In this article, we’ve explored the various ways to get today’s date in Google Sheets, including formulas, functions, and add-ons. We’ve also covered best practices and tips for using these tools, including formatting dates correctly, using the TODAY function instead of hardcoding dates, and testing formulas and functions before using them. By following these tips and best practices, you can easily incorporate today’s date into your spreadsheets and improve your productivity and efficiency.
FAQs
Q: How do I get today’s date in Google Sheets?
A: You can get today’s date in Google Sheets using the TODAY function, which can be typed into a cell as “=TODAY()”. You can also use the NOW function to get the current date and time.
Q: How do I format the date in Google Sheets?
A: You can format the date in Google Sheets using the “Format” menu or by using a formula. For example, you can use the “TEXT” function to format the date as “mm/dd/yyyy” or “yyyy-mm-dd”.
Q: Can I use the TODAY function in a formula?
A: Yes, you can use the TODAY function in a formula. For example, you can use the formula “=TODAY()+1” to get tomorrow’s date.
Q: How do I schedule updates in Google Sheets?
A: You can schedule updates in Google Sheets using the AutoDate add-on. With AutoDate, you can automatically update dates and times in your spreadsheet, as well as schedule reminders and notifications.
Q: Can I use the TODAY function in a script?
A: Yes, you can use the TODAY function in a script. For example, you can use the script editor to create a custom function that returns the current date and time.