# What date should I enter first on a workfile?

The ratification date, on the workfile's Overview tab. The deadline engine uses it to compute most task due dates, so setting it correctly puts the whole schedule on the right timeline.

Due dates are computed from a real anchor plus an offset. The anchors are the ratification date, the inspection deadline, the closing date, or the moment the deal enters a stage. Enter the closing date next: a double close or a flip keeps both legs as First Closing Date and Second Closing Date, and every date reads in your account timezone. The workfile header summarizes Exit Type, then that closing date, then Contract Price.

If task due dates look wrong or empty, the ratification date or another anchor is usually not set yet.

Read online: https://docs.closemagnet.com/articles/questions/what-date-to-enter-first