How to correct a ##### error

Microsoft Excel might show ##### in cells when a column isn't wide enough to show all of the cell contents. Formulas that return dates and times as negative values can also show as #####.

To make a column wider to show cell contents in full, double-click the right edge of the column header, or drag it to the width you want.

You can also try the following:

• To make the cell contents smaller, click Home > next to Alignment, and then check the Shrink to fit box in the Format Cells dialog box.

  

• If numbers have too many decimal places, click Home > Decrease Decimal.

  

• If dates are too long, click Home > arrow next to Number Format, and pick Short Date.

  

Correct negative dates or times

When Excel shows ##### because the cell has a negative date or time value, make sure that you:

• Verify dates and times are positive values when you're using the 1900 date system.

• Use a formula to subtract dates or times correctly to avoid negative date or time value results.

• Change negative formula results that are formatted as dates or times to a different number format.