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Microsoft Excel 365 Date & Time Picker Control: 64-bit Edition

Eric Jul 09, 2026 2026-07-09 04:40:47

Streamlining your Excel 365 workflows often involves enhancing the user experience with intuitive tools. One such tool is the Microsoft Date and Time Picker control, which can significantly boost productivity by simplifying date and time input. In this guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of this control, focusing on its application in Excel 365, specifically for 64-bit systems.

an image of a calendar on the computer screen with time and date options for each month
an image of a calendar on the computer screen with time and date options for each month

Before we dive in, let's briefly understand why the Date and Time Picker control is a game-changer. It automates the process of entering dates and times, reducing manual errors and saving precious time. Now, let's explore how to leverage this control in Excel 365 on a 64-bit system.

Microsoft Date and Time Picker Control - How To Enable and Use It
Microsoft Date and Time Picker Control - How To Enable and Use It

Enabling the Date and Time Picker Control in Excel 365

To start using the Date and Time Picker control, you first need to enable it in your Excel 365 settings. This process is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps.

Excel Date Picker - How to Insert? (Step by Step Examples)
Excel Date Picker - How to Insert? (Step by Step Examples)

First, ensure you're using the latest version of Excel 365. Then, follow these steps to enable the control:

Steps to Enable the Date and Time Picker Control

Mastering Excel Date & Time: Serial numbers, Networkdays, Datevalue, and more
Mastering Excel Date & Time: Serial numbers, Networkdays, Datevalue, and more

1. Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of your Excel window, then select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.

2. In the 'Excel Options' dialog box, click on 'Customize Ribbon' on the left-hand side.

3. Under 'Main Tabs', select 'Developer' and then click on the '+' icon next to it to expand the list of available controls.

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How to create a drop down list calendar (date picker) in Excel?

4. Scroll down and check the box next to 'Date and Time Picker'. Click 'OK' to close the dialog box.

Using the Date and Time Picker Control in Excel 365

Now that you've enabled the control, let's see how to use it in your Excel 365 sheets.

Use This Free Excel Date Picker to Enter Dates on Worksheet
Use This Free Excel Date Picker to Enter Dates on Worksheet

1. Select the cell where you want to insert the Date and Time Picker control.

2. On the 'Developer' tab, click on 'Insert' in the 'Controls' group.

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3. In the 'Form Controls' section, select 'Date Picker' or 'Time Picker' depending on your requirement. Click on the cell to insert the control.

4. A dialog box will appear, allowing you to set the initial value and other properties of the control. Make your selections and click 'OK'.

Formatting Dates and Times with the Date and Time Picker Control

Once you've inserted the control, you can format the dates and times to match your desired format. Excel 365 offers a variety of date and time formats to choose from.

To format the date or time, select the cell containing the control, then click on the 'Number' group on the 'Home' tab. Click on the 'Format' drop-down arrow and select 'More Number Formats'. In the 'Number' dialog box, select 'Custom' and enter your desired format. Click 'OK' to apply the format.

Customizing the Date and Time Picker Control's Appearance

You can also customize the appearance of the Date and Time Picker control to match your workbook's theme. This can be done by modifying the control's properties.

1. Right-click on the control and select 'Format Control' from the context menu.

2. In the 'Format Control' dialog box, you can customize various aspects of the control's appearance, such as its size, color, and font. Make your desired changes and click 'OK'.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Date and Time Picker Control

While the Date and Time Picker control is generally user-friendly, you might encounter some issues. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:

Issue 1: The control is not appearing in the 'Developer' tab.

Solution: Ensure that you've enabled the 'Developer' tab in your Excel options and that the control is checked in the 'Customize Ribbon' dialog box.

Issue 2: The control is not working as expected.

Solution: Try resetting the control by right-clicking on it, selecting 'Format Control', and then clicking 'Reset'. If the issue persists, try inserting a new control.

Incorporating the Microsoft Date and Time Picker control into your Excel 365 workflows can significantly enhance your productivity and reduce errors. With its intuitive interface and customization options, this control is a powerful tool for streamlining your date and time input processes. So, why not give it a try and experience the difference it can make in your daily tasks?