This totally depends on context. For example, on HN, relative dates are great, it is much easier to see how old posts are at a glance. However, anything where d

This totally depends on context. For example, on HN, relative dates are great, it is much easier to see how old posts are at a glance. However, anything where date is important, use the full representation. The more interesting question is, what is the best (easiest to read) way to format a full date? I believe it is: 8/1/2012 10:10:48 PM. I find twitters format slower to read: 10:10 PM - 1 Aug 12.