dates from database file won't reformat

[Crystal]

I am working with data created from a database and saved
as an excel file. The dates appear to be normal (ex.
12/1/03) but i nthe formula bar an apostrophe is shown.
In excel these dates will not reformat with the usual
command. How can I get this data to reformat to other
date formats?

 

[Andy B]

Crystal

Use DATEVALUE(A2) and format as required.

Andy.

 

[Paul]

I am working with data created from a database and saved
as an excel file. The dates appear to be normal (ex.
12/1/03) but i nthe formula bar an apostrophe is shown.
In excel these dates will not reformat with the usual
command. How can I get this data to reformat to other
date formats?

The apostrophe means they have been entered as text. Copy a blank cell.
Select all the cells in question and use Edit > Paste Special > Operation
Add. Then format all the cells in a suitable date format.

 

[Quandan.nl]

Another solution is to just Search and Replace the ' character with
nothing at all... Of course only do this with the range of
'text-dates' selected, otherwise this might mess up some required
entries of the ' symbol!

Kind regards,

Marcel Kreijne
Quandan - Steunpunt voor spreadsheetgebruikers
(Quandan - dutch supportsite for spreadsheetusers)
www.quandan.nl