Common questions about NOW usually involve input errors, unexpected results, and usage details; this section answers 3 frequent questions.
FAQ
What should I do if the NOW function shows an error?
- Check whether you typed the
=sign first. - Make sure the parentheses are complete and the function name is spelled correctly.
- Re-enter
=NOW()in the formula bar and press Enter.
How can I view the syntax hint for the NOW function?
- Select the target cell.
- Type
=NOW(. - Review the syntax hint near the formula bar and complete the formula as prompted.
Why does the result of NOW change?
- NOW returns the current system date and time.
- When the worksheet recalculates or the file is reopened, the result may update.
- If you need a fixed value, copy the result and paste it as a value.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| NOW | A function that returns the current system date and time. |
| Formula bar | The area used to enter and edit formulas. |
| Recalculation | The process of running formulas again and updating results in the worksheet. |