Rotating shift pattern planner

Build a repeating calendar from your work days and days off.

Up to 366 days total.

Clock changes follow the selected time zone.
Pattern days

Choose a pattern, then edit or reorder days. It starts on your selected date.

Pattern day 1 · Work · 09:00–17:00
Edit pattern day 1
An earlier end means the next day.
Pattern day 2 · Work · 09:00–17:00
Edit pattern day 2
An earlier end means the next day.
Pattern day 3 · Day off
Edit pattern day 3
Pattern day 4 · Day off
Edit pattern day 4
How it worksExamples, formulas and sources

How a rotating pattern works

A pattern is an ordered sequence of work shifts and days off that repeats. In a 2 on / 2 off pattern, for example, the first two dates have shifts and the next two are days off. The fifth date begins the sequence again. Your employer’s actual roster may change.

A repeating paper sequence with a loose tab
Editorial illustration. An anchor date and repeat cycle define the planned sequence; actual work can change.

Set up your calendar

Choose the first date and time zone, then use a preset or edit each pattern day. You can give shifts different labels and times, move days into order and choose how many times the pattern repeats. The schedule shows up to 366 days. An end time earlier than the start means the shift ends on the following date.

A repeating pattern becomes clearer when its cycle is written out. Compare the rotating-schedule examples; when actual work departs from that plan, the irregular-shift recording guide helps distinguish planned dates from completed work.

Clock changes and limitations

Times shown are local wall-clock times in the time zone you choose, not a calculation of elapsed or paid hours. A clock change can make a local start or end time occur twice or not at all; the list flags such endpoints for review. The planner cannot know later roster changes and does not automatically sync with Ora.

Common questions

Can I use 4 on / 4 off?

Yes. Choose that preset, then edit shift labels or times as needed. You can also build a different sequence.

Does it calculate wages?

No. This planner only lays out dates and local shift times. Use the shift pay calculator for a separate estimated gross amount.

How do I export the pattern?

Calendar export is not available in this version. Review the on-screen list and record the dates in your own calendar.

Ora can help you keep a record of your work. Explore shift tracking.

All calculators

Keep the record together.

A single calculation answers one question. Use Ora to keep shifts and earnings estimates in context over time.

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Explore this feature in Ora

Ora calendar with synthetic work shiftsOra calendar with synthetic work shifts
Ora’s interface with fictional jobs and sample shifts.