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convert date to datenum import from excel
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hello
I want to import a simple excel file to matlab and convert the column with dates from text to numeric values. The problem is that the rule convert does not show up as an alternativ. I can only replace things. Would be very glad if someone could help.
![](https://www.mathworks.com/matlabcentral/answers/uploaded_files/192040/image.jpeg)
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Accepted Answer
Adam Danz
on 17 Jul 2018
Edited: Adam Danz
on 17 Jul 2018
I agree that readtable() is the better option but if you decide to stick with the import tool, here's an idea.
In the dropdown menu under your variable name 'dag' where it currently says "Number" in your screenshot, select a date and time option. This will convert your timestamps to datetime format. After importing, you can use datenum() to convert them to double if desired.
Here's a screen shot with a different data set.
![](https://www.mathworks.com/matlabcentral/answers/uploaded_files/192017/image.jpeg)
3 Comments
Adam Danz
on 17 Jul 2018
Yeah, that might be the problem. After you select datetime you'll need to re-generate the importfile() function so the new version accounts for the new format.
More Answers (2)
Walter Roberson
on 17 Jul 2018
We recommend using readtable() instead. With new enough MATLAB, it can help to use detectImportOptions() with readtable()
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ErikJ
on 19 Jul 2018
4 Comments
Adam Danz
on 19 Jul 2018
Edited: Adam Danz
on 19 Jul 2018
doc xlswrite()
Read about the inputs and how to use this function. There's even an example that shows you how to insert data into specific cells of the spreadsheet. I was about to type up a quick demo but Matlab's documentation covers it. The best way to learn is by digging into the documentation. If you get stuck, come back.
It would be wise to make a copy of your data as you poke around with this function in case you accidentally overwrite your data.
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