Auto-Timestamps in Excel - The RIGHT Way

Need Excel to record exactly when an entry was made? In this tutorial, you'll learn how to insert a permanent date and time stamp using Excel's built-in keyboard shortcuts and how to create automatic timestamps with a simple Excel automation using a VBA macro.

The automatic timestamp macro watches a specified input range in column A and places the current date and time one cell to the right in column B. Unlike the NOW function, these timestamps are stored as fixed values and won't change whenever Excel recalculates.

As well, you will learn how to lock the timestamp so that someone can't change it.

✅ WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• The Excel shortcuts for inserting the current date and time
• How to combine the shortcuts to create a complete timestamp
• How to automatically timestamp new entries in Excel
• Where to install a Worksheet Change automation macro
• How to choose the range that activates the timestamp
• How to change the worksheet protection password
• How to protect timestamp cells from accidental changes
• How to quickly copy and paste timestamp formatting
• How the Excel VBA timestamp code works
• How to customize the timestamp automation for your own workbook

Automatic Excel timestamps are useful for tracking orders, tasks, data entry, status updates, inventory changes, form responses, and other workbook activity.

Note: The automatic method requires desktop Excel, macros enabled, and a macro-enabled .xlsm workbook.

If you'd like to learn more about automating Excel, check our Excel Automation Courses.

I hope you enjoy the video! :)

Don