Excel Formula for Counting Days Between Two Dates

Formula

To count the number of days between two dates, including both the start and end dates, use the following formula:

=END_DATE - START_DATE + 1

Cell References Example

If your start date is in cell A1 and your end date is in cell B1, the formula would be:

=B1 - A1 + 1

Explanation of the Formula

1. END_DATE - START_DATE: This part of the formula calculates the total number of days between the two dates, excluding one of the dates (the start date).
2. + 1: By adding 1 to the result, you include the start date, ensuring that both the start and end dates are counted.

Practical Illustration

Example Scenario

• Start Date: January 1, 2023 (A1)
• End Date: January 5, 2023 (B1)

Using the formula:

=B1 - A1 + 1

Calculation Steps

1. Calculate Days: January 5, 2023 - January 1, 2023 = 4 days
2. Include Start Date: 4 + 1 = 5 days

Result

The formula will return 5, indicating there are 5 days from January 1, 2023, to January 5, 2023, inclusive.

Conclusion

This formula provides a straightforward method to calculate the total number of days between two dates in Excel while ensuring both dates are included in the count. For further enhancement of your Excel skills, consider exploring relevant courses on the Enterprise DNA Platform.