Do we gain or lose an hour in November?

Answered by Robert Dupre

In November, most areas in the U.S. switch from Daylight Saving Time (DST) to Standard Time. This transition typically occurs on the first Sunday of the month. During this time change, we “fall back” one hour, which means we gain an hour of sleep or extra time in our day.

To be specific, in 2023, we will be turning back our clocks on Sunday, November 5th, at 2 a.m. This means that at 2 a.m., the time will “fall back” to 1 a.m., effectively giving us an additional hour. It’s important to remember to set our clocks back one hour before going to bed on Saturday night to adjust to the new time.

This shift in time occurs to make better use of daylight during the summer months and to conserve energy. By moving the clocks forward in the spring and back in the fall, we align our daily activities with the natural daylight patterns. It allows for more daylight in the evenings during the DST period, which can be beneficial for various activities such as leisure, outdoor sports, and reducing energy usage.

While gaining an hour in November might sound appealing, it’s essential to note that this extra hour is not permanent. It simply adjusts our clocks to Standard Time, which will be in effect until the next DST period begins in the following spring.

The end of Daylight Saving Time can have both positive and negative effects on our daily routines. On the positive side, gaining an extra hour can provide an opportunity for additional rest or leisure activities. Some people enjoy using this extra hour for a longer sleep or to engage in hobbies, spend time with family, or simply relax.

However, the time change can also disrupt our internal body clocks and sleep patterns. Some individuals may experience difficulty adjusting to the new time, especially if they are sensitive to changes in their sleep routine. It’s important to be mindful of this and make adjustments accordingly to ensure a smooth transition.

During the time change in November, we gain an hour of sleep or additional time in our day as we “fall back” to Standard Time. This transition occurs on the first Sunday of the month, which in 2023 is November 5th. While the extra hour can be beneficial for rest or leisure activities, it’s essential to be mindful of potential disruptions to our sleep patterns and adjust accordingly.