What is the NOW Function
The NOW function returns the current date and time. It updates automatically every time the workbook recalculates. This is useful for timestamps, login tracking, and any report that needs the exact current moment.
Formula: =NOW()
Practical Example 1
Type =NOW() in any cell.
Result: the current date and time, such as 17-Oct-2026 10:30
Practical Example 2
Format the output as time only.
Type: =TEXT(NOW(), hh:mm AM/PM)
Result: 10:30 AM
Practical Example 3
Calculate how long ago something happened.
Type: =NOW() - A2
Result: the elapsed time since A2
Practical Example 4
Add 1 hour to the current time.
Type: =NOW() + 1/24
Result: the current time plus one hour
When to Use It
NOW is used for login and logout timestamps, for job entry tracking, for report generated-at labels, and for any formula where you need the exact current date and time.