Military time is a 24-hour timekeeping system that starts at midnight (00:00) and ends at 23:59. Unlike the standard 12-hour format that is used in everyday life, military time does not use AM or PM, instead, it relies on a 24-hour system in which every hour of the day is represented uniquely, eliminating any sort of ambiguity that might exist between morning and evening/night times.
In many places, the military time is often referred to as the “24-hour time” and is the official time format in many countries around the world, especially in Europe, Asia, and military forces around the world.
Why Is Military Time Used?
Military time is used in situations and environments where precision is required and is non-negotiable. In environments or instances where a minute mistake in interpreting AM vs PM could result in missed operations, incorrect medications, or delayed responses, the military time or 24-hour time system is used. Here are multiple reasons why military time is used and preferred over the standard 12-hour system in many places, including here in some local prayer times.
Clarity and Precision
The military time ensures that there is no confusion between different hours and times of the day. For instance, in the military time system, there is no confusion between 1:00 AM and 1:00 PM because they are represented as 0100 and 1300, respectively. For high-stakes and important events, this clarity is very important.
Global Standardization
For standardization across different time zones and to simplify international communication, the military time system, or the 24-hour time system, is also used. For instance, the aviation industry relies heavily on communication among countries in different time zones, due to which it runs almost exclusively on 24-hour time.
Error Reduction
Using the 24-hour time system or military time also ensures that there are minimal mistakes. For instance, in healthcare, administering a dose of medicine at 0600 versus 1800 (6:00 AM vs. 6:00 PM) can mean life or death, and the military time system helps to reduce such errors.
How to Convert Between Military and Standard Time
If you are new to the military time format, then converting between military and standard time might seem tricky but it is very straightforward.
Converting Military to Standard:
- For times less than 1200, it’s AM. e.g 0700 = 7:00 AM
- For times 1200 and above, subtract 1200 to convert to PM. e.g 1500 – 1200 = 3:00 PM and 2230 – 1200 = 10:30 PM
Converting Standard to Military:
- For AM times, just add a leading zero if needed. e.g 6:00 AM = 0600
- For PM times, add 1200. e.g 4:00 PM = 1600 and 11:45 PM = 2345
Common Uses of Military Time Outside the Military
Although this time system is called military time, it is also used outside the military in many civilian sectors for its accuracy and efficiency, such as healthcare, aviation and travel, emergency services, and public transport. The reason why the military or 24-hour time system is prioritized in these civilian sectors is because it reduces the chances of critical errors, allows for precise timing, and eliminates confusion.
How to Get Used to Military Time?
If you are not used to reading or using military time in your daily routine, then it is time that you start practicing it. It can take a bit of practice, but here are some tips to help you make this process easier.
- Change your phone and smartwatch settings to 24-hour time format.
- Use the 24-hour time format for your calendar and time tables, including the prayer timetable.
- Make a habit of converting different hours of the day into 24-hour time format.
- Use apps or flashcards to recognise different hours and convert them quickly.