How to insert date, time or custom timestamp in Notepad++

One might want to insert the current time or timestamp in Notepad++ as it can be useful in situations like,

• Adding Time-stamp in log files: If you are working with log files, it can be useful to insert timestamps to indicate when events occurred. This can help with troubleshooting and tracking down issues.
• Tracking code changes: If you are working with code, it can be useful to insert timestamps to track changes say a git commit log. This can help you keep track of when you made changes and help with version control like git/svn/cvs.
• Creating time-sensitive documents: If you are working on a document that has time-sensitive information, such as meeting notes or project plans, inserting timestamps can help ensure that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information.
• Creating a timeline of events: If you are working on a project that has multiple milestones or stages, inserting timestamps can help you create a timeline that shows the progression of the project over time.
• When Collaborating with others: If you are working on a document with multiple collaborators, inserting timestamps can help ensure that everyone is working on the latest version of the document.
• Scheduling reminders/to-dos: If you use Notepad++ to create to-do lists or reminders, inserting timestamps can help you prioritize tasks based on when they need to be completed.

Steps: How to insert time/date in Notepad++ file

1. Keep the cursor on the location where you want to insert the date and time.
2. Now based on what you want date/time/timestamp, do the following,

   a) To insert Date (Short): Go to Menu: Edit -> Insert -> Date Time (short)
   b) To insert Date (Long): Go to Menu: Edit -> Insert -> Date Time (long)
   c) To insert Custom Date/time/timestamp: Go to Menu: Edit -> Insert -> Date Time (customized)
   

3. Once you click on any of the options, the date/time will get inserted at the current position of the cursor.

How to customize date/time in Notepad++

1. Open Notepad++
2. Go to Menu: Settings -> Preferences...
3. Now move to Multi-Instance and date tab in the side-bar
4. Set any custom date time format you want.
   
   Examples:

   Format -> Output Example
   yyyy -> 2023
   yyyy-MM-dd -> 2023-03-11
   dd/MM/yyyy -> 11/02/2023
   MM/dd/yyyy -> 02/11/2023
   HH:mm -> 12:44
   dd MM yyyy HH:mm:ss -> 12 01 2023 12:03:24

5. You will see a preview at the bottom of the text box
6. Click close once you are done.