> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.equinascheduling.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.equinascheduling.com/basic-terminology/spots-skillset-shifts.md).

# Spots and Shifts

A Spot is essentially a template of a Shift (either clinical or a paid-time-off shift) without a date. It is defined by a Start Hour, Duration (in hours), and has some descriptor tags for advanced features. We recommend you first create Spots before creating Employees.

{% hint style="info" %}
A Shift, defined by a Spot, is assigned to an Employee (who has a skillset)
{% endhint %}

Spots can be created in **Autopilot > Spots > Add New Spot**

{% hint style="warning" %}
You should create at least 1 Group before creating any spots. This is necessary to be able to use the Shift Template feature
{% endhint %}

![](/files/y2M02DTURR3EOiTHYzkB)

To see your list of spots that you created, click on **"Spot List"** on the left hand side menu.  The screenshot below demonstrates.  

![](/files/kkuoHApNxWJK4pW7Azue)

You can edit the spot name, Group, Start Hour, Length (hours), Spot Tags, Required Skills, Colour, or delete the spot entirely.  

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Shifts can be placed on a calendar in **Autopilot > Roster > Add/Delete Single Shift** OR **Autopilot > Roster > Add Shift Template.**  Note, you will need to create a [Shift Templates](/autopilot/spots.md) in **Autopilot > Shift Template**. More on this in the Autopilot page documentation. You can wait to create shifts until you are ready to schedule.