> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://anilist2.gitbook.io/submission-manual/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://anilist2.gitbook.io/submission-manual/submission-form/general/release-data/start-date.md).

# Start and End Date

## Start Date

The date that the work began airing or began serialization.

If a title releases early but then continues that release in a regular schedule, the start date should reflect that earlier release and the airing episode count should reflect it as well.

If a title was pre-screened at an event, regardless of location, the ***normal*** broadcast date is to be used.

{% hint style="info" %}
For works such as one-shots, standalone movies, and anthologies, both the start and end date should be set to the same day. This gives it a '*Release Date*' label in the main entry.
{% endhint %}

## End Date

The date that the work is confirmed to have finished airing or finished serialization.

![The dates for the 'City Hunter' anime](https://3414154227-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-LTDX80AfuQOCIvC1Jdz%2F-LTDXOr6J3huHMb1f6Nw%2F-LTDXX7xCyLnA5sRO7FT%2Frelease_data.png?generation=1544284683041705\&alt=media)