How Can I Accurately Parse DateTime Strings in C#?

Mastering DateTime String Parsing in C#

Accurate parsing of date and time strings is essential for effective datetime manipulation in C#. If your string follows a known format, DateTime.Parse() or DateTime.ParseExact() provide efficient solutions.

Choosing Between DateTime.Parse() and DateTime.ParseExact()

DateTime.Parse() offers automatic format interpretation, simplifying the process but potentially compromising reliability. For guaranteed accuracy, especially when dealing with consistently formatted strings, DateTime.ParseExact() is preferred:

string dateString = "2011-03-21 13:26";
DateTime parsedDate = DateTime.ParseExact(dateString, "yyyy-MM-dd HH:mm", CultureInfo.InvariantCulture);

Understanding Custom Date and Time Format Strings

Careful attention to the custom date and time format string is crucial. Consult the official documentation for a complete list of format specifiers. Remember to distinguish between uppercase and lowercase letters (e.g., "MM" for month, "mm" for minutes).

Further Learning

For more in-depth information, explore these helpful resources:

• C# String Formatting
• TryParse() Methods for DateTime

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