How to Remove Seconds from Time in Excel

Using Text Function to Format Time

To remove seconds from a time value in Excel, use the TEXT function. Apply the formula =TEXT(A2,"MM/DD/YYYY HH:MM") to convert the original datetime, such as 7/8/2014 4:17:59 PM, to the format mm/dd/yyyy hh:mm. Excel will display the new format in the cell without changing the actual cell value.

Convert Back to Datetime Format

If you need to convert the time back to a datetime format without seconds, use the formula =DATEVALUE(TEXT(A2,"MM/DD/YYYY"))+TIMEVALUE(TEXT(A2,"HH:MM")). This will result in a datetime value that Excel can use for sorting and calculations.

Understanding Excel Time Formatting

Excel's datetime field type allows for various cell formats. Remember that changing a cell's display format to omit seconds does not alter the cell's actual value. This ensures data consistency while allowing for custom display preferences.

Important Considerations

Be aware that formatting a datetime field to remove seconds may affect sorting and calculations. Since Excel retains the actual value, operations based on time may not reflect the formatted appearance.

Common Use Cases

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  Creating a simplified schedule without seconds for better readability
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  Generating reports with time data formatted in hours and minutes only
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  Preparing time sheets that require entry precision up to the minute, not seconds
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  Cleaning up imported time data to conform to company time-tracking standards
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  Streamlining datasets for time-based analysis by removing unnecessary seconds detail

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