how do I show dates in a column in an excel worksheet?

[papacradd]

Using excel 2003, I am trying to create a worksheet in which the first column
records the dates of purchases and sales, the details of which are then
recorded in the corresponding row. I keep getting a series of symbols, which
usually indicate an incorrect formula. I don't want a formula, just a date.
Can anyone please advise how I can do this, as the office assistant and m/s
online dont seem to understand my question?

 

[JE McGimpsey]

Are the symbols ####? In that case, widen the column, or choose a
different date format.