How to Convert Time to Seconds in Excel (3 Easy Methods)

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Microsoft Excel is a powerful software. We can perform numerous operations on our datasets using Excel tools and features. There are many default Excel Functions that we can use to create formulas. Many educational institutions and business companies use Excel files to store valuable data. Often, we work with different time units in Excel. Therefore, it may be sometimes necessary to convert a particular time unit to another. There are some methods available to perform the task. This article will show you 3 easy ways to Convert Time to Seconds in Excel.

Any company or other professional workplace keeps track of their employee entries in an Excel worksheet. And obviously, that will include time. Again, converting the time to hours, minutes or seconds is important to track the working duration. To illustrate, we’ll use a sample dataset as an example. For instance, the following dataset contains 5 different times in a 12-hour time format. We’ll transform them into seconds. Hence, go through the below methods one by one and choose whichever suits you best.

convert time to seconds in excel


1. Convert Time to Seconds in Excel with Simple Formula

We know,

1 hour = 60*60 = 3600 seconds

1 minute = 60 seconds

In our first method, we’ll create a simple formula using this information. However, we have to give special consideration to AM/PM as we’ll be using the 12-hour time format. Now, follow the steps below to perform the task.

STEPS:

  • First, click cell C5.
  • Then, type the formula:
=(0*3600)+(15*60)+10
  • Here, notice that, as the hour is 12 AM, we have to multiply 0 (not 12) by 3600, which will result in 0.
  • After that, press Enter.
  • It’ll return the time in seconds.

Convert Time to Seconds with Simple Formula in Excel

  • But, a drawback of this method is that we can’t apply the AutoFill to get other outputs.
  • We have to input them one by one manually.
  • Similarly, in the last cell C9, you’ll see the accurate formula:
=(22*3600)+(7*60)+59
  • As the hour part is 10 PM, we have to add 12 with 10 to get the precise hour number.
  • In this way, you can convert time to seconds manually.

Read More: Convert Time to Text in Excel


2. Combining Excel HOUR, MINUTE, & SECOND Functions for Converting Time to Seconds

To avoid the hassle of typing formulas manually for each of the time inputs, we’ll use the time functions in this method. The HOUR function extracts the hour, the MINUTE function retrieves the minute, and the SECOND function returns the second from a cell reference. So, learn the following steps properly to carry out the operation.

STEPS:

  • Firstly, select cell C5.
  • Next, input the formula:
=HOUR(B5)*3600+MINUTE(B5)*60+SECOND(B5)
  • Subsequently, press Enter.
  • If you see the output in Time format, change it to General/Number format.
  • As a result, you’ll get the total seconds.

Combine HOUR, MINUTE, & SECOND Functions for Converting Time to Seconds

NOTE: HOUR(B5)*3600 retrieves 0, then multiplies the 0 with 3600. The MINUTE(B5)*60 part returns 15 and multiplies it with 60. SECOND(B5) gives out 10.
  • Afterward, use the AutoFill tool to complete the rest.
  • Thus, you’ll see the other outputs.

Read More: How to Convert Time to Hours in Excel


3. Inserting CONVERT Function to Convert Time to Seconds

Moreover, we can apply the CONVERT function to transform the time into seconds. This function converts a given number format to another specified format or measurement system. Hence, follow the below process to perform our desired task.

STEPS:

  • First of all, click cell C5.
  • Then, type the formula:
=CONVERT(B5,
  • Consequently, you’ll get different options.
  • Choose Day.

Insert Excel CONVERT Function to Transform Time to Seconds

  • Similarly, select Second next.

  • Press Enter.
  • Thus, it’ll return the result in seconds.

  • Finally, apply AutoFill to fill the series.
  • Hence, you’ll see the precise outcomes.

Read More: How to Convert Decimal Time to Hours and Minutes in Excel


Download Practice Workbook

Download the following workbook to practice by yourself.


Conclusion

Henceforth, you will be able to Convert Time to Seconds in Excel following the above-described methods. Keep using them and let us know if you have more ways to do the task. Don’t forget to drop comments, suggestions, or queries if you have any in the comment section below.


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Aung Shine
Aung Shine

Aung Shine completed his bachelor’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology. It has been almost 2 years since he joined SOFTEKO and actively working on the ExcelDemy project. Currently he works as a Team Leader where he guides his team members to create technical content. He has published 150+ articles and reviewed 50+ articles. He has also solved various user problems before. He has interests in Data Analysis, Power Query, Advanced Excel,... Read Full Bio

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