Problem: Flash Fill won't fill dates. When I use Ctrl+E, it won't get them right.
Strategy: First, the Text to Columns command would handle dates better than Flash Fill. But, if you need to use Flash Fill, follow these steps:
- Choose the column where you want the dates to fill.
- You have to apply a date format that has two spaces for month and four for year. Press Ctrl+1 to display the Format Cells dialog. On the Number tab, choose the Custom category. Type a date format of MM/DD/YYYY.
- Fill in the first date.
- Go to the blank cell below that date.
- Ctrl+E to Flash Fill.
- You are now free to select the column and apply another date format.