Changing your Windows 11 clock to a 12-hour format is a breeze. You just need to tweak a few settings in your computer. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your clock displaying time in the 12-hour format with AM and PM. It’s quick and easy, and you can do it in less than five minutes.
Step-by-Step Tutorial to Change to 12-Hour Format in Windows 11
This section will guide you through the process of changing the time format on your Windows 11 computer to a 12-hour format.
Step 1: Open Settings
Go to the Start Menu and click on the Settings icon.
The Settings icon looks like a small gear. You can also press the Windows key + I to open Settings quickly.
Step 2: Navigate to Time & Language
In the Settings window, click on “Time & Language.”
“Time & Language” is where you can adjust everything related to your computer’s clock, language, and region settings.
Step 3: Click on Date & Time
Under “Time & Language,” select “Date & Time.”
This section allows you to change how your date and time are displayed on your computer.
Step 4: Select Date, Time & Regional Formatting
Scroll down a bit and click on “Date, time & regional formatting.”
Here, you’ll find more specific settings that let you customize the date and time format.
Step 5: Click on Change Date and Time Formats
Click on “Change date and time formats.”
This is where you can switch between the 24-hour and 12-hour time formats.
Step 6: Change the Short and Long Time Settings
Under the “Short time” and “Long time” options, select the time format that includes AM and PM.
You’ll see options like “hh:mm tt” and “h:mm tt.” Choose the one you prefer for both short and long time.
Step 7: Close Settings
Once you’ve selected the 12-hour format, you can close the Settings window.
Your changes are automatically saved, so there’s no need to click a “Save” button.
After you complete these steps, your clock will now display the time in a 12-hour format with AM and PM indicators.
Tips for Changing to 12-Hour Format in Windows 11
- Double-check that you’ve changed both the short and long time formats.
- Use the Windows key + I shortcut to quickly access the Settings menu.
- Explore other regional settings if your time format is still not correct.
- Restart your computer if the changes don’t appear immediately.
- Ensure your system is updated to avoid any bugs in the Settings menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch back to the 24-hour format easily?
Yes, simply follow the same steps and choose a 24-hour format.
Why is my clock not showing AM/PM after making the change?
Make sure you selected the correct time format under both “Short time” and “Long time.”
Do I need to restart my computer for changes to take effect?
Usually, no. But if the changes don’t appear immediately, a restart might help.
Will changing the time format affect my apps?
No, changing the time format only affects how the time is displayed, not how apps function.
Can I customize the format further?
Yes, Windows allows for customization beyond the standard options. You can explore more in the regional formatting settings.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Time & Language.
- Click on Date & Time.
- Select Date, Time & Regional Formatting.
- Click on Change Date and Time Formats.
- Change the Short and Long Time Settings.
- Close Settings.
Conclusion
Switching to a 12-hour format in Windows 11 is straightforward and seamless. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to customize your time display to suit your preference. Whether you want to avoid the confusion of military time or simply prefer seeing AM and PM, this small tweak can make a big difference.
Feel free to explore other settings within the “Time & Language” section to further personalize your Windows 11 experience. Changing formats and settings can sometimes feel like diving into a sea of options, but with a little guidance, it’s as easy as pie. If you run into any issues, come back to this guide for quick troubleshooting tips.
So, don’t hesitate—adjust your settings now and enjoy a more personalized and user-friendly interface. Your computer should work for you, not the other way around!
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.