How to auto-populate dates in Excel

You can watch a video tutorial here.

When working with Excel, you can use the features of Excel to generate data. One such feature is the ability to auto-populate dates based on a start date. The fill handle increments by a single day but you can use the menu option to generate sequences based on weekdays, months, or years.

Option 1 – Use the Fill Handle

Step 1 – Create a sequence that increments by 1 day

• In the first cell of the destination column, type the date from which the sequence of dates is to start
• Select the cell and use the fill handle to drag the box down
• The sequence of dates being generated will be displayed as you drag the handle down
• Release the handle when you reach the desired end date

Step 2 – Check the sequence

• A series of dates will be generated from the initial date with increments of 1 day

Option 2 – Use the Fill menu option

Step 1 – Open the Series box

• In the first cell of the destination column, type the date from which the sequence of dates is to start
• Select the start date and the range of cells in which the dates have to be auto-populated
• Go to Home > Editing > Fill
• Select Series

Step 2 – Set the parameters for auto-populating weekdays

• Set the values in the box as follows:
  • Series in: Columns
  • Type: Date
  • Date unit: Weekday
• Click OK

Step 3 – Set the parameters for auto-populating months

• In the column for months, repeat Step 1
• Set the values in the box as follows:
  • Series in: Columns
  • Type: Date
  • Date unit: Month
• Click OK

Step 4 – Set the parameters for auto-populating years

• In the column for years, repeat Step 1
• Set the values in the box as follows:
  • Series in: Columns
  • Type: Date
  • Date unit: Year
• Click OK

Step 5 – Check the different sequences

• Different sequences of dates can be auto-populated using a single start date