Why doesn't Excel display argument hints for DATEDIF()?

Question

Whenever I type a function into Microsoft Excel 2013, a small hint box is displayed which lists the function's arguments.

For some reason, this hint box doesn't appear when using DATEDIF(). I can't find it listed anywhere on the formula tab, nor am I shown any reminder of what arguments to use. Excel won't even autocomplete the formula name while typing.

^{Returns number of days between Nov 15-Nov 20}

The formula works as expected once entered, but it's difficult to use properly when I need to have the arguments memorized.

Why isn't Excel displaying argument hints for DATEDIF()?

Answer 1

DATEDIF is an undocumented function in Excel

From Office Support:

Excel provides the DATEDIF function in order to support older workbooks from Lotus 1-2-3. The DATEDIF function may calculate incorrect results under certain scenarios.

From My Online Training Hub

For some reason Microsoft [doesn't] think the DATEDIF function is worthy of any documentation since Excel 2000. In fact they say they only include it in recent versions for backward compatibility.

From Happy LTD

Microsoft no longer supports this function in Excel. You can still use it, but you don’t get any help with it.

A suggestion is: UDF replacement for Excel's DATEDIF function

Also visit:

• Do not use the undocumented DATEDIF function
• Introduction To The DATEDIF Function