TODAY and NOW Function Generator
TODAY returns the current date with no time. NOW returns both date and time. Both are volatile: they recalc every time the sheet recalculates, so values change automatically.
Syntax
=TODAY() or =NOW()Try it — generate a TODAY / NOW formula
Examples
Days since invoice
=TODAY()-A2Gives days elapsed. Format result as number.
Timestamp on edit
=NOW()Use for auto-updating clocks or audit stamps.
Freeze a timestamp
Ctrl+; for today, Ctrl+Shift+; for timeKeyboard shortcut inserts a static value instead of volatile formula.
Tips
- ✓TODAY() and NOW() change on every recalc — use keyboard shortcuts to freeze.
- ✓TODAY() has no time component (midnight).
- ✓In Sheets, use File > Settings > Recalculation to control refresh frequency.
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