If you want your computer to show the date in a way that’s easier for you to read, like changing from 8/29/2019 to 29-08-2019, this guide will help you do that in Windows 11.

Why Change the Date Format?

Windows shows dates using your region’s settings by default. This means the date might look different depending on where you live. You can change the date format so it matches how you like to see it — whether with slashes (/), dashes (-), or dots (.).

Easy Steps to Change Date Format in Windows 11

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

Press Windows key + I on your keyboard to open the Settings window. Or, click Start and then click Settings.

Step 2: Go to Language & Region

In Settings, click Time & language on the left side.

Then click on Language & region on the right.

Step 3: Change the Regional Date Format

Find the Regional format section and click the Change format button.

Step 4: Pick Your Date Format

Here you can choose how the date looks:

• Short date – How the date looks in places like the taskbar (e.g., 8/29/2019).
• Long date – How the date looks when written out more fully (e.g., Thursday, August 29, 2019).

Select your preferred format from the dropdown menus.

Step 5: Close Settings

Once you’re done, just close the Settings window. Your new date format will now show up in Windows.

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Alternate Way: Use the Control Panel

If you prefer, you can also change the date format using the classic Control Panel:

Step 1: Open Control Panel

Click the Start button and type Control Panel in the search box. Click the Control Panel app to open it.

Step 2: Open Region Settings

In Control Panel, click Change date, time, or number formats. This will open the Region window.

Step 3: Customize Date Formats

Under the Formats tab, pick the format you want from the dropdown menu.

Then click Additional Settings… to open the Customize Format window.

Step 4: Set Your Date Format

Click the Date tab, then enter or choose the date format you want Windows to show.

Step 5: Apply and Close

Click OK to save your settings, then close all windows. Your new date format will be applied.

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Summary

• You can change how Windows 11 shows dates by using either the Settings app or the Control Panel.
• Changing the Regional format lets you pick different styles for short and long dates.
• Choose the format that’s easiest for you to understand and use.

Now you know how to make your computer show the date just the way you want!