> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.shortcutco.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.shortcutco.com/readme/proposals.md).

# Proposals

Proposals are how you send estimates to prospective or current customers.

A proposal is the quote a customer approves before work is scheduled. In the app it's called an **Estimate** (the **Create estimate** button, the **Estimates** tab) — same thing. Approving an estimate is what turns a lead into a customer and creates their jobs.

* [How to create and send a proposal](/readme/proposals/how-to-create-and-send-a-proposal.md) — build and price an estimate, measure the lawn, then send it by email/SMS or approve it for the customer.
* [Proposal service options (edit + alternatives)](/readme/proposals/proposal-service-options-edit-+-alternatives.md) — edit lines, set how often they repeat, offer alternatives, add products, mark items optional.
* Quote faster with [Templates](/readme/configuration/templates.md), or quote a whole [chemical program](/readme/chemical-tracking.md) — any program marked **Proposal ready** in Chemicals.

Estimates that aren't accepted **expire after 30 days** — they're marked Expired automatically, and you can always send a fresh one.

{% hint style="info" %}
Still stuck? Email <hello@shortcutco.com> with the lead's name and a screenshot of the estimate screen.
{% endhint %}