How to correct date format in mail merge

The age-old issue of date formats in mail merge!

When using mail merge in Microsoft Word, the date format can sometimes get messed up, especially when merging data from different sources or regions. Here are some ways to correct date format issues in mail merge:

Method 1: Use the Format function

In your mail merge document, you can use the Format function to convert the date to the desired format. For example:

• =Format([DateField],"yyyy-mm-dd") will convert the date to the format yyyy-mm-dd.
• =Format([DateField],"mm/dd/yyyy") will convert the date to the format mm/dd/yyyy.

Replace [DateField] with the actual field name containing the date.

Method 2: Use the TEXT function

Another way to format dates is by using the TEXT function:

• =TEXT([DateField],"yyyy-mm-dd") will convert the date to the format yyyy-mm-dd.
• =TEXT([DateField],"mm/dd/yyyy") will convert the date to the format mm/dd/yyyy.

Method 3: Use a custom date format

In the mail merge document, go to the "Mailings" tab, then click on "Select Recipients" and then "Edit Recipient List". In the "Edit Recipient List" dialog box, click on the "Format" button next to the date field. This will open the "Format" dialog box, where you can select a custom date format.

Method 4: Use a formula with the DATE function

If you're using a date field that's not in the desired format, you can use the DATE function to convert it:

• =DATE(MID([DateField],7,4),MID([DateField],4,2),MID([DateField],1,2)) will convert a date in the format mm/dd/yyyy to the format yyyy-mm-dd.

Method 5: Use a third-party add-in

If you're using a specific date format that's not supported by Word, you can use a third-party add-in like Date Format or Format Date to convert the date to the desired format.

Remember to test your mail merge document thoroughly to ensure that the date format is correct and consistent throughout the document.