How to convert military time to standard?

How to Convert Military Time to Standard

Converting military time to standard time is a common task that can be easily accomplished with a little practice and understanding of the conversion process. Military time is based on a 24-hour clock, while standard time is based on a 12-hour clock with AM and PM. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to convert military time to standard time.

Understanding Military Time

Before we dive into the conversion process, it’s essential to understand how military time works. Military time is based on a 24-hour clock, with the day starting at 0000 hours (midnight) and ending at 2359 hours. Each hour is represented by a four-digit number, with the first two digits representing the hour and the last two digits representing the minutes.

For example, 1400 hours is 2:00 PM in standard time, and 0200 hours is 2:00 AM in standard time.

Converting Military Time to Standard Time

Converting military time to standard time is a simple process that involves breaking down the four-digit military time code into its corresponding hour and minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Identify the first two digits of the military time code, which represent the hour.
• Step 2: If the first two digits are 13-23, subtract 12 from the number to convert it to standard time. For example, 1400 hours becomes 2:00 PM (1400 – 1200 = 2:00 PM).
• Step 3: Convert the last two digits of the military time code, which represent the minutes, to standard time. Simply add the minutes to the hour converted in step 2.

Here’s a table to help illustrate the conversion process:

Converting AM and PM

When converting military time to standard time, you need to consider the AM and PM designations. Here’s a rule to follow:

• Rule: If the military time code is 0000-1200, the corresponding standard time is AM. If the military time code is 1201-2359, the corresponding standard time is PM.

For example, 1100 hours is 11:00 AM, while 1430 hours is 2:30 PM.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When converting military time to standard time, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Mistake 1: Adding 12 to the hour instead of subtracting. For example, 1400 hours becomes 20:00 instead of 2:00 PM.
• Mistake 2: Forgetting to convert the minutes. For example, 1450 hours becomes 1:50 PM instead of 2:50 PM.
• Mistake 3: Confusing AM and PM. For example, 1300 hours becomes 1:00 PM instead of 1:00 AM.

Conclusion

Converting military time to standard time is a simple process that requires a basic understanding of the conversion process. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can easily convert military time to standard time. Remember to identify the first two digits of the military time code, subtract 12 if necessary, and convert the minutes. With practice, you’ll become proficient in converting military time to standard time in no time!