Microsoft Excel Functions & Formulas

Calculate number of hours between two dates

Excel has a problem calculating the difference between two dates in

hours. Try this by opening a new worksheet and typing the starting

date including time (3/20/2006 13:42) in cell A2. In cell B2, type the

end date and time (3/24/2006 7:42). Then subtract B2 from A2 in

cell C2. The calculation generates 1/3/1900 18:00, which is incor-

rect. If your result displays #####, you’ll need to extend the

width of column C.

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To properly format the difference in hours:

1. Select cell C2.

2. From the Format menu, select Cells and choose the Num-

ber tab.

3. Select Custom from Category.

4. Type the custom format [hh]:mm.