This tutorial provides several methods for calculating the number of days between two dates in Microsoft Excel. Need to know the difference between today and a past or future date? This guide covers various scenarios.

Quick Calculation with an Online Calculator:

For a fast answer, use this online calculator:

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The underlying formula is simply =B3-B2. Further methods are detailed below.

Direct Subtraction:

The simplest method involves subtracting the earlier date from the later date:

=Later Date - Earlier Date

For example: =B2 - A2 (assuming earlier date in A2, later in B2). Excel stores dates as serial numbers, making this subtraction straightforward. This method handles both positive and negative differences.

Using the DATEDIF Function:

The DATEDIF function offers another approach:

=DATEDIF(Start Date, End Date, "d")

Note: DATEDIF is an undocumented function; you must manually enter it. It only works if the start date is before the end date; otherwise, it returns a #NUM! error.

Employing the DAYS Function (Excel 2013 and later):

Excel 2013 and later versions provide the DAYS function:

=DAYS(End Date, Start Date)

Similar to direct subtraction, it handles positive and negative differences.

Calculating Days from/to Today:

To calculate days since or until a specific date, use the TODAY() function:

• Days since a past date: =TODAY() - Past Date
• Days until a future date: =Future Date - TODAY()

Counting Working Days (excluding weekends):

The NETWORKDAYS function calculates working days, excluding weekends:

=NETWORKDAYS(Start Date, End Date, [Holidays])

The optional [Holidays] argument allows excluding specified holidays.

Using a Date & Time Wizard (Ablebits Tools):

For a simplified approach, consider using a Date & Time Wizard (such as the one from Ablebits Tools). This tool guides you through the process and offers various formatting options.

Downloadable Example:

Downloadable examples are available to further illustrate these methods. (Link to .xlsx file omitted as I cannot provide file downloads).

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