What is the right date format to use?

Do not get caught up in minutia. Life is empty enough. If you doubleclick on your clock at the bottom-right of your screen your computer will give you many options. I hereby give your permission to use any of them. If you need to use a specific format for a specific course, teacher or field you need to consult with that person or governing body but why not go for a walk with a friend instead? Perhaps I am missing the context to this question? I like 01/14/12.
Candlelight8 - I hope I have not responded to a 4 year old post.

All those are valid date formats. Which one you use in a particular situation depends on the requirements of that situation. If in a work situation ask your manager or observe existing date format. For academic work, journalism or other material to be published, ask your editor or consult the appropriate style guide.