What does the TODAY() formula do in Excel?

TODAY() returns the current date each time the workbook refreshes — so the date automatically updates every day without manual entry.

How do I use TODAY() in a project plan to highlight overdue tasks?

Combine TODAY() with conditional formatting: format rows where the End Date column is less than TODAY() to highlight tasks that are past due.

Does TODAY() update automatically in Excel?

Yes. TODAY() is a volatile function that recalculates every time the workbook opens or any cell is edited.

Excel TODAY() Function: Uses & Examples

The =TODAY() formula is a Date & Time Excel formula that returns the date (month, day, year) of the current day. To see it in action, simply enter [=TODAY()] into any cell in an Excel workbook. It...

The =TODAY() formula is a Date & Time Excel formula that returns the date (month, day, year) of the current day. To see it in action, simply enter [=TODAY()] into any cell in an Excel workbook.

It's a neat function, but asides from reminding the Excel user of today's date as they open a workbook, what else can it be used for? Well, I have some ideas:

1. Project work plans and trackers: If you manage your project work plan in Excel, and maintain the standard Task, Start Date, End Date columns, you could use the =TODAY function to quickly draw attention to the tasks that are currently open, due tasks and delayed task. The Conditional formatting feature in Excel can be programmed to color the cells containing these categories of tasks, thus making them easy to spot.

I will load more ideas as time goes on. What other ways can we use the =TODAY() function? Please share in the comments below.

Excel TODAY() Function: Practical Uses for Project Trackers & Reports

Frequently Asked Questions