How to Convert AM/PM Time Format to 24-Hour Format in SQL

Learn the method to convert AM/PM time format to 24-hour format in SQL. Simplify time-related operations and enhance your database functionalities.
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How to Convert AM/PM Time Format to 24-Hour Format in SQL

Working with time formats in SQL can sometimes be challenging, especially when it comes to converting between different formats. A common requirement is converting the 12-hour AM/PM time format to the 24-hour format. Understanding this conversion is crucial for simplifying time-related operations and enhancing the effectiveness of your database.

Why Convert Time Formats?

In many applications, the 24-hour format is preferred over the 12-hour AM/PM format because it avoids the ambiguity associated with AM and PM. This can be especially useful in applications that require accurate time computations or internationalization.

Converting AM/PM to 24-Hour Format

To convert an AM/PM time format to a 24-hour format in an SQL table, you can use the following SQL functions. Here, we'll consider the mysql database, but similar functions exist in other SQL dialects.

Example

Assume you have a table named events with a column event_time that stores time in the AM/PM format as a string.

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You might see data like this:

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To convert these times into the 24-hour format, you can use the STR_TO_DATE function to interpret the AM/PM format and then format it with DATE_FORMAT.

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Explanation

STR_TO_DATE(event_time, '%r'): This function converts the AM/PM time string into a datetime value based on the format %r which interprets time in the 12-hour format (hh:mm:ss AM/PM).

DATE_FORMAT(..., '%H:%i'): This function then formats the resulting datetime value to a string in the 24-hour format (HH:mm).

Conclusion

Converting AM/PM time to a 24-hour format in SQL involves using built-in functions like STR_TO_DATE and DATE_FORMAT. This conversion is beneficial for eliminating ambiguities and making time-based operations more straightforward. Applying this approach can significantly enhance the capabilities of your database in handling time-related data.

Mastering these functions can improve your work with time data in SQL, providing you with a robust foundation for developing time-aware applications.