What is the DATEDIF function? How to calculate date interval in Excel?

What is the DATEDIF function?

The DATEDIF function is a useful tool in Microsoft Excel used to calculate the interval between two dates. Although it is not directly documented in Excel, it is still available and widely used as a part of Excel’s compatibility functions. DATEDIF calculates the number of days, months, or years between two dates and provides the result as a numerical value. This function is particularly handy when working with projects or tasks that require tracking and monitoring time intervals.

How to calculate date interval in Excel using DATEDIF?

To calculate the date interval using the DATEDIF function in Excel, you need to follow these steps:

1. Open Excel and locate the cell where you want the result to appear.
2. Enter the start date in one cell and the end date in another cell.
3. In the cell where you want the result to appear, insert the DATEDIF formula using the following syntax:
   =DATEDIF(start_date, end_date, "interval")
4. Replace start_date with the cell reference of the start date and end_date with the cell reference of the end date.
5. Replace interval with the desired unit to calculate the interval. You can choose from the following options:
   • “d” for the number of days
   • “m” for the number of complete months
   • “y” for the number of complete years
6. Press Enter to get the result.

Once you follow these steps, Excel will calculate the date interval based on the chosen unit and display the result in the designated cell. It’s important to note that the DATEDIF function is known for its peculiarities and limitations. For example, it only provides the number of complete months or years, excluding partial months or years.

If you encounter any issues or discrepancies while using the DATEDIF function, it is recommended to refer to official Microsoft Excel documentation or consult reliable sources to ensure accurate usage.

In conclusion, Excel’s DATEDIF function is a powerful tool for calculating date intervals. By using the appropriate syntax and choosing the desired unit, you can easily determine the duration between two dates, helping you effectively manage time-related tasks in your Excel spreadsheets.

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