This formula returns a number that Excel recognizes as 2:00 AM. We add the result to the starting time: To make sure we have a true time value, we need to ensure that we have only a decimal value. In other words, if we add 12 hours (.5) to 6 PM (.75) we’ll get 1.25, but we really only want .25. To make sure we get just the decimal value, we use the MOD function with a divisor of 1, as a clever way to keep the formula simple. MOD returns the remainder after division, so returns the decimal value in cases where the result is greater than 1 (i.e. greater than 24 hours). Even better, if we end up with a negative fractional value, MOD returns the reciprocal. So, if we end up with -.25, MOD returns .75 (equivalent to 6 PM). This is important, because Excel won’t display negative time values.
Datetimes
Some date values include both a date and time, and are sometimes called “datetimes”. These values include both a serial number to represent the date, plus a fractional value to represent time. The table below shows some examples: When working with dates that include both a date and time (datetimes), you don’t need to use MOD, because there’s no need to do anything clever as times cross midnight. The operation becomes simple addition, because the date is included, and you can use a formula like this: This will allow the date value change as needed (forwards or backwards) when time adjustments cross 12:00 AM.
Dave Bruns
Hi - I’m Dave Bruns, and I run Exceljet with my wife, Lisa. Our goal is to help you work faster in Excel. We create short videos, and clear examples of formulas, functions, pivot tables, conditional formatting, and charts.
