How the cycle works
The pattern repeats four scheduled workdays followed by four rest days. Because the cycle is eight days rather than seven, workdays move through weekdays and weekends over time.
The actual shift length and day/night assignment must be defined separately; the pattern name alone does not determine paid hours.
Calculate hours across the full cycle
Multiply the number of workdays by the scheduled hours per shift, then divide by the eight-day cycle to estimate an average daily load. Convert that result to a weekly average only for planning.
Overtime rules may apply to specific workdays or workweeks, so an average is not a substitute for pay-period calculations.
Plan handoffs and recovery
Long blocks of work can simplify coverage but increase fatigue and make handoffs more important. Review consecutive nights, turnaround time, leave coverage and training days before publishing the schedule.
Use the interactive builder
Generate several cycles from the intended start date, inspect payroll boundaries and export the schedule for review. Treat the output as a planning template rather than a legal or staffing determination.