Changing the time format in Windows 11 is a simple task that can be accomplished in just a few clicks. First, access the Settings app and navigate to the Time & Language section. From there, go to Date & Time and look for the option to change the time format to the 12-hour clock. This quick alteration ensures your computer displays time in a format familiar to you, whether for personal preference or practicality. Follow the detailed steps below to get the job done efficiently.
Change Time to 12 Hour Format in Windows 11
Switching your Windows 11 computer to show the time in a 12-hour format is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
From the Start Menu, you can access all your apps, and it’s your first stop to get into the Settings where the magic happens.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Click on the gear icon to open the Settings app.
Settings is where you control everything about how your computer looks and feels, including time format settings.
Step 3: Navigate to Time & Language
In the Settings window, find and click on Time & Language.
This section is your go-to spot for any changes related to time zones, formats, and language settings.
Step 4: Choose Date & Time
Once in the Time & Language section, select Date & Time from the options.
Date & Time options let you configure how your computer shows the calendar and clock settings.
Step 5: Change the Time Format
Find the “Change date and time formats” link and click it, then select the 12-hour format for time.
Selecting this will switch your clock display from the 24-hour military style to the more common 12-hour format, showing AM and PM.
Once you’ve made these changes, your computer will immediately switch to the 12-hour clock format. This means all displayed times will now include AM and PM to indicate morning or afternoon times, making it easier to read and understand for those more familiar with this format.
Tips for Changing Time to 12 Hour Format in Windows 11
- Ensure your Windows is up-to-date to avoid any unexpected errors.
- Remember, you can always switch back to a 24-hour format if you change your mind.
- Use the search bar in the Start Menu if you have trouble finding the Settings app.
- After changing the format, check your taskbar to ensure the new time setting is applied.
- Consider setting your region correctly while in Time & Language for accurate time settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why change the time format?
People often prefer the 12-hour format for its ease of understanding, especially in countries where it is commonly used.
Does this affect my alarms and reminders?
Yes, changing the time format will affect how times are displayed across all apps, including alarms and reminders.
Can I change the date format as well?
Yes, in the same section where you change the time format, you can also adjust date formats.
Will this change affect my system performance?
No, changing the time format does not impact system performance; it only alters how time is displayed.
How can I revert to the 24-hour format?
Simply follow the same steps and select the 24-hour option in the “Change date and time formats” section.
Summary
- Open the Start Menu.
- Go to Settings.
- Navigate to Time & Language.
- Choose Date & Time.
- Change the Time Format.
Conclusion
Changing the time to a 12-hour format in Windows 11 is a breeze when you know where to look, and it’s a handy tweak for those of us who prefer to see AM and PM rather than deciphering military time. With just a few clicks, you’ve customized your computer to better suit your needs and preferences, making your digital life that much easier to navigate. It’s like flipping a switch to bring a bit more daylight into your day-to-day computer use.
If you’re a fan of personalization, this change is just the tip of the iceberg. Windows 11 offers a myriad of customization options for you to explore. From changing your desktop background to adjusting your notification settings, there are plenty of ways to make your computer truly your own.
For further reading, you might want to dive into other Windows 11 features, like customizing your taskbar or exploring new Widgets. These small changes can make a big difference in your workflow and overall experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment—your computer is there to serve you, so make it work just the way you like it!
If you found this guide helpful, consider checking out other how-tos on Windows 11. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just someone who likes to keep things running smoothly, there’s always something new to learn.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.