How the 2-2-3 shift schedule works
The 2-2-3 schedule (also known as the Pitman rotation) is a 14-day shift pattern used across emergency services, healthcare, and continuous manufacturing. In this illustrated Monday-start sequence, work shifts and off days alternate in blocks of two and three.
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The 14-day rotation cycle
In the illustrated 14-day cycle, the roster comprises 7 working shifts and 7 off days. The exact days off depend on your roster's starting anchor date.
| Week | Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | Total Work |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 (Long) | Work (12h) | Work (12h) | Off | Off | Work (12h) | Work (12h) | Work (12h) | 5 shifts (60h) |
| Week 2 (Short) | Off | Off | Work (12h) | Work (12h) | Off | Off | Off | 2 shifts (24h) |
Alternating Weekend Blocks
In this Monday-anchored example, Week 2 off days fall on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Whether your weekend off is Week 1 or Week 2 depends on your roster's starting anchor date.
Two- and Three-Day Work Blocks
Shifts are scheduled in consecutive runs of 2 or 3 days, followed by 2 or 3 days off in this 14-day sequence.
14-Day cycle calendar configuration
Because a 14-day pattern does not match a standard 7-day single-week view, configuring the cycle requires aligning the sequence to an anchor start date.
Two Alternating Weeks
A 2-2-3 pattern has different working days in Week 1 versus Week 2. Replicating a single week does not produce the correct subsequent week.
Anchor Date Alignment
To project the rotation forward across calendar months, the 14-day cycle must be tied to a specific anchor calendar date.
WeekShape rotation features (In Development)
WeekShape is engineered around non-7-day shift patterns, using template models and anchor projection.
Built-in Pitman 14-Day Template
WeekShape includes a built-in 14-day Pitman work/rest template in its rotation catalog.
Anchor Date Projection
Set your rotation starting date once; WeekShape projects the 14-day cycle across the month view.
Individual Day Edits
Edit a single date manually when your shift changes, without altering the underlying rotation template.
Pre-Shift Reminders & Home Screen Widget
Set local notifications before your shift begins and view upcoming shifts on your Home Screen widget.
Get updates on WeekShape for iPhone
WeekShape is currently in active development. If you work a 2-2-3 or rotating roster and want to know when WeekShape launches on the App Store, send us a quick note.
Email Us for Launch Notice ([email protected])