When you enter dates in Excel, you may want to display them in a consistent format. Instead of opening the Format Cells dialog box, you can use a keyboard shortcut to apply the default date format quickly.
The Ctrl + Shift + # shortcut applies a date format to the selected cells.
What Does Ctrl + Shift + # Do in Excel?
The Ctrl + Shift + # keyboard shortcut applies Excel’s default date format to the selected cells.
In many Windows versions of Excel, the date appears in a format such as `07-Oct-26`. The exact display can depend on your Excel and regional settings.
This shortcut changes how a date is displayed. It does not enter a new date or change the underlying date value.
How to Apply Date Format Using Ctrl + Shift + #?
Follow these steps to apply the date format in Excel.
1. Enter a valid date in a cell.
2. Select the cell or range of cells containing the dates.
3. Press Ctrl + Shift + #.
4. Excel applies the default date format to the selected cells.
You can select multiple cells to format several dates at once.
Example: Apply Date Format in Excel
Suppose you have entered dates in column A. Excel may display them as numbers if the cells are formatted as General.
Before applying the shortcut:
| Cell | Date |
| A2 | 46302 |
| A3 | 46333 |
| A4 | 46363 |
These numbers can represent valid Excel date values.
Select the range A2:A4 and press Ctrl + Shift + #.
After applying the shortcut:
| Cell | Date |
| A2 | 07-Oct-26 |
| A3 | 07-Nov-26 |
| A4 | 07-Dec-26 |
Excel displays the underlying date values in a date format. The dates shown here illustrate the result when the original values represent those dates.
How to Use Ctrl + Shift + # on the Keyboard?
The # symbol is usually entered using the Shift + 3 key combination on a standard US keyboard.
To apply the shortcut:
1. Press and hold Ctrl.
2. Press and hold Shift.
3. Press the 3 key on the top number row to enter `#`.
Note: The key combination for entering `#` can vary by keyboard layout. On some keyboards, the symbol may be located on a different key.
Can You Apply Date Format Without a Keyboard Shortcut?
Yes. You can apply a date format using the Excel Ribbon.
1. Select the cells containing the dates.
2. Go to the Home tab.
3. In the Number group, open the Number Format dropdown.
4. Select Short Date or Long Date.
You can also press Ctrl + 1 to open the Format Cells dialog box, select the Date category, and choose a date format from the available options.
What Is the Difference Between Ctrl + Shift + # and Ctrl + ;?
Both shortcuts are useful when working with dates, but they perform different actions.
| Shortcut | Action |
| Ctrl + Shift + # | Applies a date format to selected cells |
| Ctrl + ; | Enters the current date into the active cell |
For example, use Ctrl + Shift + # to change how an existing date is displayed. Use Ctrl + ; when you want to enter today’s date as a fixed value.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Does Ctrl + Shift + # enter today’s date?
No. It formats the selected cells as dates. To enter today’s date as a fixed value, press Ctrl + ;.
2. Can I apply this shortcut to multiple cells?
Yes. Select the range containing the dates and press Ctrl + Shift + #. Excel applies the date format to the selected cells.
3. How do I press Ctrl + Shift + # on a keyboard?
On a standard US keyboard, press and hold Ctrl and Shift, then press the 3 key on the top number row. Keyboard layouts may differ, so the key for entering `#` can vary.
4. Why does Excel display numbers instead of dates?
Excel stores valid dates as serial numbers. If a cell is formatted as General or Number, Excel may display the serial number instead of a date. Applying a date format changes how the value appears.
5. What if I see ###### after applying the date format?
The column may be too narrow to display the full date. Widen the column by dragging its right boundary or double-clicking that boundary to AutoFit the column width.
6. Can I change the date format after using Ctrl + Shift + #?
Yes. Select the cells, press Ctrl + 1 to open the Format Cells dialog box, and choose the date format you want under the Date category.
Final Thoughts:
The Ctrl + Shift + # shortcut helps you apply a date format quickly without opening the Format Cells dialog box. Select the cells containing valid dates and use the shortcut to display them in a date format.
For more useful shortcuts, visit our Excel Keyboard Shortcuts guide.
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