What are the different types of recurring tasks?

Recurring tasks help you automate routine work by scheduling tasks to repeat over time. Nines supports two types of recurring tasks, each designed for different workflows.

Types of Recurring Tasks

1. Fixed Schedule

A fixed schedule task repeats at a set date and time—regardless of when the previous task is completed.

How it works:

• The task repeats on a predefined schedule (e.g., every Monday, the 1st of each month, or annually).
• When the task’s end date is reached, a new task is automatically created.
• The new task keeps the same start and end time as the previous one.

Best for:

• Routine tasks tied to a calendar date
• Maintenance schedules (e.g., monthly inspections, annual servicing)
• Tasks that must happen at a specific time, no matter what

2. After Completion

An after completion task only repeats once the current task has been completed.

How it works:

• The next task is created only after the current one is marked complete.
• The new task’s date is calculated based on the completion time.
• Example: “Repeat after 3 days” → the next task is scheduled 3 days after completion.

Best for:

• Tasks that depend on when the last one was actually finished
• Follow-ups and ongoing workflows
• Situations where timing should adjust dynamically

Recurrence Duration

By default, recurring tasks will continue indefinitely.

You can optionally set a recurrence end date to stop future repetitions.

Example:

• A task repeats annually on May 1
• Recurrence end date is set to December 31, 2026
• The task will not appear on May 1, 2027

Where Recurring Tasks Appear

Understanding where to find recurring tasks is key:

Task Overview

• Shows current and active tasks only
• Does not display future recurring tasks to reduce noise

Calendar

• Displays all scheduled tasks, including future recurring instances
• Best place to view upcoming repetitions

Key Takeaways

• Use Fixed Schedule for tasks tied to specific dates and times
• Use After Completion for tasks that should repeat based on when they’re finished
• Recurring tasks continue indefinitely unless an end date is set
• Future recurring tasks appear in the Calendar, not in the Task Overview

If a recurring task is not appearing as expected, check:

• Whether it’s scheduled in the future (Calendar view)
• Whether a recurrence end date has been set
• Whether the task has been completed (for “After Completion” tasks)
• Whether the last task in the series has been edited or deleted