Quick Answer
MONTH Function
MONTH returns the month (1-12) from a date.
✓ Excel✓ Google SheetsExcel All versions
Syntax
MONTH
(serial_number)
Parameters
| Parameter | Description | Required |
|---|---|---|
| serial_number | The date from which to extract the month. | Required |
Basic Example
Extract month from date
=MONTH("7/4/2026")Result7
Returns 7 for July from the date "7/4/2026".
Advanced Examples
Example 1: Get month name
FormattingConvert month number to month name
=TEXT(A1, "mmmm")Result: July
Uses TEXT function to format the month as a name.
How MONTH Works
MONTH extracts the month (1-12) from a date serial number.
1
Select output cell
Choose where the month should appear.
2
Enter formula
Type =MONTH(date).
3
Press Enter
The result shows the month number (1-12).
Important Notes & Limitations
MONTH returns 1-12, not the month name.
For month names, use TEXT(date, "mmmm").
Common Errors & Fixes
#VALUE!Non-date argumentFix: Ensure the argument is a valid date.
Download Practice File
MONTH
monthPractice MONTH with Real Data
Download a sample CSV file with pre-populated data and practice exercises for the MONTH function. Works in both Excel and Google Sheets.
Works in Google SheetsCompatible with ExcelIncludes exercises
File format: CSV (comma-separated values) - opens in Excel, Google Sheets, and all spreadsheet apps
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MONTH return 0-based or 1-based?
MONTH is 1-based: January=1, December=12.