EDATE in WPS on Windows FAQ

Last updated:July 23, 2026

Find answers to 3 common questions about EDATE in WPS on Windows, including formula errors, backward month shifts, and date-format checks.

FAQ

What should I check first if EDATE returns an error?

  1. Confirm the function name is EDATE and the parentheses are complete.
  2. Check whether the start date is a valid date or a correct date-field reference.
  3. Review the month parameter and save the formula again.

Can EDATE calculate a date in an earlier month?

  1. Yes. Enter a negative number in the month parameter.
  2. For example, -1 shifts the date back by one month.
  3. Save the formula and verify the returned result.

Why does the result not look like a date?

  1. Confirm the formula has calculated successfully without a syntax issue.
  2. Check the field display format and the original date value.
  3. If needed, test with another start date or month value for comparison.

Glossary

TermMeaning
EDATEA function that returns a date shifted by a specified number of months.
Start dateThe original date used as the basis of the calculation.
Month offsetA date adjustment measured in months, forward or backward.