How to keep track of shift swaps
Short answer: record a swap on the exact dates it affects, with the shift you now work and who you traded with. Leave your rotation unchanged.
1. Mark both dates
If you take Tom's night on the 12th and he takes your day on the 20th, change the 12th to Night and the 20th to Off.
2. Note who you traded with
"Swap with Tom" on both days. Weeks later, this is the part people forget.
3. Keep the pattern intact
Your rotation is the rule; swaps are exceptions. Overriding single days keeps every other date aligned with the official roster.
4. Check the month totals
After a swap, look at hours worked for the month. An uneven trade (12h for 8h) changes your total.
Doing it with Dutymark
Tap the date, pick the new shift and type who you traded with. The day gets a swap stamp, the pattern stays put, and the month summary updates.
FAQ
Why not just edit my pattern?
Because a swap is one day. Editing the pattern shifts every future day and your calendar stops matching the official roster.
What should I write down for a trade?
Both dates, the shift you gave and the one you took, and the coworker's name. That's what you need when payroll or a manager asks.
Does a swap change my overtime?
A straight trade doesn't. If the shifts are different lengths, the difference shows up in your hours.