How to Use TODAY Function in Excel: Simple Guide

Use the TODAY() function in Excel to insert the current date that updates automatically every time you open the file. Just type =TODAY() in any cell to display today's date without any arguments.

Syntax

The TODAY() function has a very simple syntax with no arguments.

• TODAY(): Returns the current date based on your computer's system clock.

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=TODAY()

Output

4/27/2024

Example

This example shows how to use =TODAY() in a cell to display the current date. The date updates automatically each day you open the spreadsheet.

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=TODAY()

Output

4/27/2024

Common Pitfalls

Some common mistakes when using TODAY() include:

• Trying to add arguments inside the parentheses (it takes none).
• Expecting the date to update in real-time without reopening or recalculating the sheet.
• Confusing TODAY() with NOW(), which also shows the current time.

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=TODAY(1)  <strong>Wrong:</strong> 
=TODAY()  <strong>Right:</strong>

Quick Reference

Function	Description	Example
TODAY()	Returns current date only	=TODAY()
NOW()	Returns current date and time	=NOW()
TEXT(TODAY(), "mm/dd/yyyy")	Formats date as text	=TEXT(TODAY(), "mm/dd/yyyy")

Key Takeaways

Use =TODAY() to insert the current date that updates daily.

TODAY() takes no arguments—just type it with empty parentheses.

The date updates only when the sheet recalculates or opens.

Use NOW() if you need the current time along with the date.

Format TODAY() output with TEXT() to display date in different styles.