The 24-hour clock format, also known as military time, eliminates the need for AM/PM. Hours from 00 to 11 are AM, and hours from 12 to 23 are PM. To convert a PM time, simply add 12 to the hour (e.g., 3 PM = 15:00). To convert from 24-hour format, subtract 12 from hours greater than 12 (e.g., 17:00 = 5 PM).
How to Read a 24-Hour Clock (Military Time)
The 24-hour clock format is used worldwide to avoid ambiguity between AM and PM. Learning to read it is a simple and useful skill.
Quick Answer
To read a 24-hour clock, any hour from 1 to 12 is the same as AM. For any hour greater than 12, just subtract 12 to get the PM time. For example, 15:00 is 3 PM, and 20:00 is 8 PM.
Related Questions
What is UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)?
UTC is the primary time standard by which the world regulates clocks. It's the successor to GMT and is based on atomic time for precision.
What is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
DST is the practice of advancing clocks by one hour during warmer months to extend daylight into the evening.
What does GMT stand for?
GMT stands for Greenwich Mean Time, the historic time standard based on the Prime Meridian in Greenwich, London.
What are leap seconds?
A leap second is a one-second adjustment added to UTC to keep it in sync with the Earth's irregular rotation.