# CDate Function

**YouTube:** [How to Use the CDate Function in Report Custom Columns?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iynKifN5EVg)

## How to Use the CDate Function in Report Custom Columns?

In this tutorial, we'll demonstrate how to convert values into proper date format using the `CDate` function within report grids. You'll learn how to configure the script editor, create a custom expression, and display the value as a valid date in your report.

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### Accessing the Expression Designer:

* Navigate to the **Reporting** section.
* Open the **Sales Register Detailed Report** or any **"Report".**
* Go to **Setup Column Attributes**.
* Here, you'll see a list of available columns that can be used to build expressions.
* Click on **"Add/Edit Expression Columns"** where you can write your expression using predefined functions.

<figure><img src="/files/QqZlgPb7nJy0O1lsvxB5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Before adding the expression to the report, go to **Other Settings**.
* Ensure the **Script Editor** is set to **VBScript**.

<figure><img src="/files/US8rZzar6siLdptkuOMX" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Click **Save**.
  * *Note: VBScript is the default for new configurations but always verify this setting.*

### Writing Your First Expression

* Every expression must start with the script header: **'#@LSCRIPT**

<figure><img src="/files/K37bBe9AvTCKOiLXaocU" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Click the (+) Plus icon to create a new expression.
* Fill in the required fields:&#x20;
  * **Expression Name** – A unique name for your expression.
  * **Expression Type** – Choose either **Text** or **Numeric** depending on the expected output.

<figure><img src="/files/myhie33Ja6ZPEfbVOqpJ" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Double-click the new expression name to insert it into the script editor.
* Define the expression using the syntax:
  * **Expression Name** = CDATE(BILL\_DATE).

<figure><img src="/files/elx1nMytZQiQTETsjdkN" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Click **Save**.
* Scroll down and **check the box** to enable the column in the report.

<figure><img src="/files/fctRI90vXi6wxV9rcLqy" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Save and proceed to check the effect.
* **Refresh the report** to view the final result.

<figure><img src="/files/OnADEUeeBjofCoiTZ2oL" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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### Output:

* The column now displays the **value in proper date format**.
* This is especially useful when:
  * Performing **date-based calculations**
  * Applying **filters or comparisons**
  * Formatting for **display purposes**

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