How can I insert the current date into my Grapher graph?

In Grapher, the ability to insert today’s date into your graph provides a simple yet valuable way to automatically timestamp your work. This feature ensures that graphs and reports remain current without the need for manual updates each time they’re opened or printed. This reduces the risk of manual errors that can occur when dates are entered and keeps your recurring reports, templates, and presentations consistent and reliable. Displaying the current date also gives you confidence that the information your stakeholders are viewing is up-to-date and accurate, which is especially important in time-sensitive fields like research, production monitoring, or financial reporting.

To insert the current date into your graph:

1. Click the Home | Insert | Draw | Text command ().

2. Click anywhere on the graph where you’d like the date to appear.

3. In the Text Editor window, click the Insert Date/Time button ().

4. Choose the preferred date format and click OK.
   You can select a predefined date format and click Insert.
   Example: M/d/yyyy will appear as 3/15/2025 and yyyy-MM-dd will appear as 2025-03-15.

5. The date will appear in the text box; click OK again to place it on your graph.

The next time you open the file, the date will automatically update, keeping your visuals accurate and current without extra effort.

Updated April 2025