Excel changed all my dates and times to serial numbers and I cannot change them back

The formula bar still shows the value as a date as I have it formatted as a date. But the cell shows the serial number that corresponds to the date. Same thing with time values.

Answer
Answer

Hi BelacM,

 

As Bernie mentioned, it should be caused by the “Show Formulas” option, which it would results the date and time is presented as numbers.

 

I noticed that you posted under Mac category, in this scenario, you can go to Formulas tab > make sure Unselect Show Formulas option.

Image 

 

After you unselect this option, the date should be displayed correctly as date value.

 Image

 

If the problem still exists, may I know the following information at your convenience?

1: What is your Excel for Mac version? You can click Excel menu > About Microsoft Excel to find details.

2: Does the scenario occur in all Excel workbooks or this particular Excel workbook? You can also try to create a new blank workbook and see whether the same scenario happens.

 

Best regards,

Dihao

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Question Info


Last updated March 29, 2025 Views 3,035 Applies to: