Python’s datetime module provides the strftime() method to convert datetime objects into formatted strings. This allows you to customize the output to match specific requirements.
The strftime() Method
The strftime() method takes a format string as an argument and returns a string representing the date and time according to the specified format.
Syntax:
Python
formatted_string = datetime_object.strftime(format_string)
Format Codes
The format_string consists of various directives that specify how to format different parts of the date and time. Here are some common directives:
| Directive | Description |
|---|---|
| %Y | Year with century (e.g., 2023) |
| %y | Year without century (e.g., 23) |
| %m | Month as a number (01-12) |
| %B | Full month name (e.g., January) |
| %b | Abbreviated month name (e.g., Jan) |
| %d | Day of the month (01-31) |
| %H | Hour (24-hour clock) |
| %I | Hour (12-hour clock) |
| %M | Minute (00-59) |
| %S | Second (00-59) |
| %p | AM/PM indicator |
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Example
Python
import datetime
now = datetime.datetime.now()
# Format as YYYY-MM-DD HH:MM:SS
formatted_str = now.strftime("%Y-%m-%d %H:%M:%S")
print(formatted_str)
# Format as a friendly date and time
formatted_str = now.strftime("%B %d, %Y, %I:%M:%S %p")
print(formatted_str)
Customizing Formats
You can combine multiple directives to create custom formats:
Python
formatted_str = now.strftime("%a, %b %d, %Y") # Output: Fri, Nov 24, 2023
By understanding the available directives and combining them effectively, you can create various date and time formats to suit your needs.
Formatting Dates and Times
What is the strftime() method used for?
To convert a datetime object into a formatted string.
What is the strptime() method used for?
To convert a string into a datetime object.
How do I specify the format for strftime() and strptime()?
Use format codes like %Y, %m, %d, %H, %M, %S, etc.
What is the difference between %d and %m?
%d represents the day of the month (01-31), while %m represents the month as a number (01-12).
How do I format the time in 12-hour format?
Use %I for the hour in 12-hour format and %p for AM/PM.
How can I avoid ambiguity in date formats?
Use unambiguous formats like ISO 8601 (YYYY-MM-DD).
What should I consider when formatting dates for different cultures?
Be aware of different date and time conventions and use appropriate format codes.
How can I handle time zones when formatting dates?
Use the pytz library for accurate time zone handling.